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Best Online Travel Agencies

Booking.com is our top choice for making your trip arrangements

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Planning a trip can be easier through an online travel agency than if you handle each aspect of the planning separately. You can book hotels, air travel, rental cars, and more through a single site, and booking everything together sometimes results in discounts. By inputting a destination, a range of dates, and other preferences, you will see a list of options for each aspect of travel.

The best online travel agencies offer options from the largest number of airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, and more. Look for sites that offer discounts for combining reservations for different aspects of your trip. For example, the best sites will have lower rates if you book both plane tickets and a hotel through their services. The best sites also provide reviews from customers who actually have booked through the service. These are our top picks.

• Best Overall: Booking.com
• Best Budget: Skyscanner
• Best Price Predictor: Hopper
• Most Innovative: Kiwi.com
• Best for Eco-Conscious: Kind Traveler
• Best for Social Impact: I Like Local
• Best for Design-Forward Homestays: Plum Guide
• Our Top Picks
• Booking.com

Kind Traveler

I Like Local

• See More (4)

Final Verdict

Frequently asked questions, methodology, best overall : booking.com.

 Booking.com

This industry leader offers one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms on the Internet.

Lots of options to choose from

Interface is easy to use

Numerous filters to customize your search

Tricky to tell whether changes/cancellations can be made with Booking.com or the vendor directly

Booking.com was founded in 1996 and has grown into an industry leader that stands out for being one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms out there. From one website, you can compare and book accommodations, flights (including one-way and multi-city flights), sightseeing activities, and even airport taxis. The website lists more than 28 million accommodation options, from hotels, hostels, and B&Bs to vacation homes and luxury resorts—you can browse more choices per destination on Booking.com than other online travel agencies. The website also performs well on cost and typically returns lower-than-average prices for flights and hotels. 

Booking.com's interface is also easy to use. On the home page, search for a hotel by entering your chosen destination and dates. Then, use the extensive list of filters—such as price range and distance from the city center—to narrow the results down and find the best fit. You can also search for a specific hotel, or seek inspiration by clicking through options grouped by destination or property type or by topic such as the country’s best Michelin-starred hotel restaurants or the top cities for vegan travelers. The flights, car rental, and other tabs are just as intuitive. 

Best Budget : Skyscanner

 Skyscanner

You can compare prices across airlines, hotels, and car rentals.

Simple interface

Option to toggle searches between specific dates or by monthly calendars

Search Everywhere button is great for spontaneous planners

Extra clicks are required to make a final purchase

Must read fine print for changes/cancellations—may need to deal directly with the vendor

Ads on the sidebar can be distracting

Find deals on airfare, hotels, and car rentals with an aggregator site like Skyscanner , which uses a metasearch engine to compare prices from all online travel agencies and the airline, hotel, or car rental company in question. Run searches with fixed dates, opt to compare airfare prices month to month, or click “Cheapest Month.” Searches also include options for nearby airports or non-stop flights only. With hotel searches, you can choose to select only from properties with free cancellation, a cleanliness rating of 4.5/5 or higher, or 3- or 4-starred hotels only. Car rental searches include an option to select “return car to different location.”

Once you’ve found the best rate, click on the link to be redirected to the third-party site to make your booking. Feeling spontaneous? The Search Everywhere button on the homepage offers a list of the cheapest flight deals for destinations both locally and across the world—just plug in your departure airport first.

Best Price Predictor : Hopper

The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting when flights and hotel rates will be cheapest.

Color-coded system makes it easy to determine cheapest days to buy

App is easy to use

Option to track flights and receive alerts when the best time to buy arises

Some have mentioned the app functions better as a research tool than a booking tool

Unclear whether Hopper will price match if you find a cheaper flight elsewhere

Hopper is a travel app available on iOS and Android that aims to help travelers save on airfare by usng historical data and their own algorithm to predict when flights will be cheapest. Just type in where and when you’d like to fly and Hopper will present you with a color-coded pricing calendar indicating how much tickets are likely to cost. (Green is the least expensive, then yellow, orange, and red for most expensive.) Hopper will also recommend you either buy now or wait, or you can choose to watch a trip and receive notifications on the best time to buy. In addition, the app has expanded to offer hotel and car rental price predictions, too.

Some newer features since the app’s inception in 2009 include an option to freeze a price for a limited time—for an extra fee—as well as exclusive app-only discounts. Hopper is free to download, and you can choose to book directly through the app, though some users mentioned they use Hopper as more of a research tool before booking directly with the airline or hotel. The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting flight rates up to a year ahead.

Most Innovative : Kiwi.com

This metasearch engine scours the web to piece together the ideal itinerary using planes, trains, buses, and more.

Creative itineraries get you where you need to go, especially if you’ve got a multi-stop trip

Kiwi Guarantee offers rebooking or cancellation protections

Nomad option appeals to travelers with a lot of flexibility

Creative itineraries mean you may not fly out of the same airport you flew into

Kiwi Guarantee has an additional fee

Charges all-in-one fee for booking flights, trains, buses (though you can always purchase a la carte)

Travelers planning multi-city destinations and seeking a bargain, as well as those looking to take planes, trains, and automobiles to get there, might consider Kiwi . Kiwi is a metasearch engine that scours and pieces together itineraries from various airlines (even if they don’t have a codeshare agreement), considers multiple airports (even if your arrival airport is different from departure), and offers booking options, whether you’re looking at very specific dates or more general ones (up to 60 nights).

Some will find the ability to make multiple bookings for a particular trip more convenient than going at it manually several different times, though note that you must opt into the Kiwi Guarantee program to access rebooking and refund protections should your reservation change or be canceled. Kiwi’s Nomad option allows you to plug in a bunch of destinations you’d like to visit and the length of your intended stay, and the website will churn out the most affordable itineraries for review.

Best for Eco-Conscious : Kind Traveler

A give-and-get business model means booking accommodations with exclusive perks, a donation to environmental organizations, and more.

All participating hotels include a local give-back component

Exclusive savings and perks

Participating hotels are located in some of the most beautiful places in the world

Inventory is much smaller compared to other booking platforms

Some of the amenities mentioned are based on availability only

In 2022, Kind Traveler (an online trave agency focused on hotel bookings) announced an increase in environmentally and socially conscious hotels, charity donations, voluntourism opportunities, and additional perks like waived resort fees or a welcome amenity.

Unlock exclusive hotel rates and perks from participating Kind Traveler hotels with a minimum $10/night minimum donation to a local charity. For example, stay at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives and receive up to $33 off the nightly rate and perks such as a food and beverage credit and an Earth Lab or Alchemy Bar workshop when you make a donation to Manta Trust. The organization funds coastal research to protect the island nation’s large yet fragile population of reef mantas.

Select from more than 140 participating hotels from the Hawaiian Islands to Bozeman, Montana, and the Maldives. Charities include wildlife, human rights, arts, education, and environmental preservation organizations.

Best for Social Impact : I Like Local

Choose from a host of travel experiences with the peace of mind that 100 percent of the cost goes directly to local partners.

Social impact mission woven into organization’s business model

Immersive experiences led by local guides

Range of experiences offered

May not be best fit for those seeking upscale, luxury experiences and stays

Can’t sort experiences by a list of countries (though an interactive map is available)

No experiences outside of Africa and Asia

For an online travel agency with a booking platform designed to route dollars spent directly to the communities travelers intend to visit, consider I Like Local . Visit the website to browse a host of travel experiences in countries including Indonesia, Kenya, and Cambodia. Experiences include homestays and farmstays as well as wellness and culturally oriented experiences—from cooking and cycling tours to weaving classes.

To search for an experience, select from drop-down items like travel dates and experience categories, or view a global map and click on a country to view experiences that way.

The platform got its start in 2014 and has grown to 4,000 local hosts across nearly 20 countries. As a social impact organization, 100 percent of each booking fee goes to local hosts. To date, 16,000 travelers have booked with I Like Local.

Best for Design-Forward Homestays : Plum Guide

Browse and book seriously vetted, design-forward vacation homes.

Highly curated inventory of vacation rentals across the world

Design-forward

Thorough vetting process

Does not publish guest reviews

Other platforms have homes available across more destinations

When it comes to booking a vacation home, serviced apartment, or condo, travelers are spoiled for choice. Plum Guide is an online travel agency that specializes in accommodations—though not just any home makes its directory. The company claims that each potential home listed on its site must jump through 150 hoops to be included, from internet speed and mattress and pillow quality to the showers’ water pressure and the home’s proximity to dining, shopping, and attractions.

Search by a featured collection on the website such as “ pet-friendly homes ” or “one-of-a-kind homes in Palm Springs.” Scroll to the bottom of its homepage to view its top destinations, as well as a list of all destinations where Plum Guide homes are available, including Barbados, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, the U.S., and Turkey. Note: From the top right-hand corner of the site, use the dropdown menu to select currency of choice.

As long as you know what you value most out of your travel experience—such as affordability, social impact, or luxe accommodations—there’s an online travel agency to help plan your next trip. Be sure to read the fine print, as some agencies are third-party websites and not direct vendors. If you're not sure where to start, Booking.com is your best bet for a smooth user experience and hard-to-beat offers on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.

What Is the Biggest Travel Agency?

Our choice for best overall, Booking.com, is known as an industry leader with listings for all major hotels, airlines, car rental companies, and more. It boasts more choices for accommodations per destination than any other site, and we found its interface to be user-friendly.

Are Online Travel Agencies Worth It?

This depends on your needs and priorities. The best online travel agencies certainly can save time by booking everything all at once. However, if you're someone who is good at haggling and enjoys the details of planning a trip, you might be able to find better deals by reaching out to hotels or other destinations and speaking to someone personally.

Is It Cheaper to Book Online Than With a Travel Agent?

Not always. A travel agent you know and trust should have the experience and connections to find deals that can match or surpass what you'll find online. Additionally, if something goes wrong, travel agents provide you with an actual person you can use as an advocate to correct the problem . But if you don't have access to a good travel agent, online sites still provide plenty of ways to streamline planning and save money .

We considered dozens of online travel agencies and narrowed down the options based on user experience, volume and quality of inventory, unique offerings and specials, and customer reviews. We also assessed travel companies’ environmentally and socially conscious policies.

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The Top 15 Tour Operators in 2021

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite tour operators .

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

Linking up with the right tour operator can take an amazing trip and turn it into a trip of a lifetime . This might seem like magic, but their in-the-know expertise and long-standing relationships open the doors for the seemingly impossible — a private Jeep safari with a professional tracking team in the depths of Torres del Paine or one-on-one cooking classes from a chef that runs a Michelin-starred restaurant in the south of France. And if any group has traversed the world enough to discern the best tour operators out there, it's the readers of Travel + Leisure .

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

The companies that made the list have the skills and connections to create itineraries that reflect their clients' personal interests. No. 3 VBT Bicycling Vacations curates two-wheeled trips all over the globe . One reader said, "Their staff make all the difference." No. 2 Mountain Lodges of Peru puts together highly personalized trekking adventures to Machu Picchu. As another reader exclaimed, "This is the way to visit Machu Picchu!"

But at the top of the list is Quasar Expeditions. Though primarily known for its cruises (the company won the small-ship ocean cruises category this year), it also operates a roster of dynamic safari-style excursions in South America. Read on to find out what sets it apart and which other companies join it on this year's list of the best tour operators in the world.

1. Quasar Expeditions

Quasar Expeditions is for adventurers. The highly specialized itineraries are designed to make guests feel like they're James Cook or Charles Darwin. "Quasar Expeditions' guides are the ultimate, passionate gatekeepers to the Galápagos Islands," one reader said. "Their enthusiasm and love of the islands and the wildlife encourages you to share in their passion and desire to conserve the natural beauty and habitat of the area while still allowing low-impact tourism." Another raved, "Excellent isn't a high enough rating to describe our experience with Quasar Expeditions. Extraordinary in every way!" And while Quasar is best known for its Galápagos trips, it gets high marks for its Patagonia itineraries, which takes guests into the best parts of Chile's Torres del Paine and Argentina's Los Glaciares — two of South America's most spectacular national parks.

Score: 99.58 More information: quasarex.com

2. Mountain Lodges of Peru

Score: 98.93 More information: mountainlodgesofperu.com

3. VBT Bicycling Vacations

Score: 98.70 More information: vbt.com

4. Classic Journeys

Score: 98.60 More information: classicjourneys.com

5. TCS World Travel

Score: 97.55 More information: tcsworldtravel.com

6. Black Tomato

Score: 97.25 More information: blacktomato.com/us

7. Inside Japan Tours

Score: 96.84 More information: insidejapantours.com

Score: 96.72 More information: tauck.com

9. Wilderness Travel

Score: 95.71 More information: wildernesstravel.com

10. Trek Travel

Score: 95.71 More information: trektravel.com

11. Geographic Expeditions

Score: 95.70 More information: geoex.com

12. Thomson Family Adventures

Score: 94.89 More information: familyadventures.com

13. Greaves

Score: 94.74 More information: greavesindia.com

14. DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

Score: 94.64 More information: duvine.com

15. Odysseys Unlimited

Score: 94.39 More information: odysseys-unlimited.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

What does a travel agency do?

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

What does a travel agency do? You will almost definitely have heard of travel agencies if you have ever booked a holiday or have an interest in the tourism industry. But what exactly is a travel agency, and what do they do?

What is a travel agency?

Independent travel agents, online travel agencies , visitor information centres, other types of travel agency, what can a travel agency book, big names in the travel agency industry, travel agency business model, a brief timeline of travel agencies, further reading.

A travel agency is essentially the ‘middle man’ between travel companies and the general public i.e consumers. They book all sorts of travel-related experiences for customers on behalf of larger companies.

The main aim of a travel agency is to make the booking process simpler for the public, who might lack the time or confidence to book trips themselves.

Types of travel agencies

So what does a travel agency do? It mostly depends on what type of travel agency you’re looking at. This can be broken down into the following types…

An independent travel agent is the type you’ll see on Instagram or with their own Facebook pages, their feeds full of snaps from Amsterdam, Bali , or New York City. They tend to partner with a ‘host agency’, who will take a portion of the agents’ commission themselves in exchange for letting them use the company software and access their commission. Travel agents are also able to recruit other people, and in turn get a cut of their commission too. In this way, independent travel agencies tend to be a type of multi-level marketing scheme.

Online travel agencies are much more consumer-focused. They allow individual customers to book their own travel, but as a package or with the added protection from ATOL and ABTA. They act as a broker, allowing you to input your dates, desired destination(s), what board basis you wish to travel and so on. The site then pulls together a package deal, allowing you to book everything in one go with access to booking details so you can make amendments and keep up to date with any changes.

While these don’t offer flights and hotels generally, visitor or tourist information centres are found within cities or tourist destinations. They provide advice, maps, discounts and booking services for tours and excursions such as open top bus tours. These are usually run by local or national governments, or specific tourist boards. They are great for recommendations when travelling somewhere new!

Hotel concierge services work in this same way, often getting commission for booking trips for guests.

I won’t go into too much detail here, but there are other types of travel agencies too. You can learn more in this post about the different types of travel agents .

Overall, what does a travel agency do?

A travel agency does a multitude of things. During non-peak times, they will mostly spend their days researching new or upcoming tourist destinations and what makes them so great, advertising them as somewhere people can book future holidays to.

Travel agencies are also required to keep up to date with safety information for various destinations. They do plenty of research meaning they can tell customers about the best places to go, what they can do while they’re there, what documents they need and so on. This is particularly important now, as travel advice is ever-changing with regards to political conflicts and public health.

But during peak times and in the run-up to these times, travel agents will be busy actually booking trips. Nowadays they mostly do everything via the computer, using the internet to put holiday packages together which include at least the basics – flights and accommodation – for one price. However, they also call travel companies directly in order to get better deals or to see if there are rooms or seats available which might not be showing online for whatever reason. Because of this, travel agencies and agents tend to have great relationships with particular brands.

Travel agents can book much more than just flights and accommodation. Not all of them can book all of these experiences or features, but it is definitely worth asking if you are using a travel agency to book your next vacation.

• Flights – short haul, long haul, & various classes
• Accommodation – hotels, apartments, and villas
• Airport transfers
• Executive airport lounges
• Airport parking
• Cruises – river and ocean
• Car rentals
• Travel insurance
• Excursions and tours
• Taxi services
• Currency exchange
• Train tickets
• Theme park & water park tickets e.g Disneyworld and Universal in Orlando, Florida

They will also advise on public transport services and timetables, as well as arranging for medical items to be delivered and any access requests you have.

Most travel agencies are actually online, and many of us use them regularly. There are still some in-store travel agencies, but with the impact of both modernisation and the Covid-19 pandemic the majority are online now. Below are some big names within the industry which you will likely recognise.

Expedia – founded by Microsoft in 2001

Cruise.com – specifically for booking cruises

American Express Travel – allows you to earn & use points when booking

Audley Travel – the largest operator in tailor-made travel

loveholidays – a British company founded in 2012

Lastminute.com – offering cheaper travel when you book last minute

Kiwi.com – specifically for booking air and ground transport

Booking Holdings – these are a travel technology company who own Booking.com, Cheapflights, OpenTable and more

Now we’ve looked at the question of ‘ what is a travel agency’, let’s take a look at the generic business model. Generally, travel agencies work in one of two ways. The first way is by receiving commission from the companies they book experiences with for customers. For example, if you were to use a travel agency to book your next holiday which included flights, a hotel stay and a transfer to and from the airport this is three separate components which will be booked through three different companies. The travel agency will receive commission from each of the three companies. There may be other benefits and incentives offered by the travel companies. Commission rates and these benefits mean that travel agencies are more likely to use some companies more so than others who might offer them less in exchange.

Alternatively, travel agencies will charge a fee for their services. This makes it more expensive for consumers to book trips through travel agents and agencies than it would to book themselves. However, as some people don’t feel confident booking themselves, many are happy to pay this additional cost. Holidays booked through travel agencies often come with the added benefit of being ATOL and ABTA protected.

• Cox & Kings were the first travel agency, was established in 1758
• Abreu Agency was the first public travel agency, was established in 1840
• Thomas Cook , one of the most famous travel agencies, was founded in 1841
• Brownwell Travel, the first travel agency in the US, was established in 1895
• Nippon Travel Agency was the first travel agency in Japan, established in 1905
• Intourist became the official state travel agency of the Soviet Union in 1929
• The first travel agency in Australia which went on to become Helloworld Travel, was established in 1951
• Henderson Travel Service became the first Black-owned travel agency, taking Black tourists to various African countries, in 1955
• American Airlines’ Sabre unit created a direct-to=consumer booking tool for flights, hotels and cars in the early 1980s
• Mode Tour became the first travel agency in South Korea, established in 1989
• Hotel Reservations Network, which went on to become Hotels.com, was established in 1991 – at this point, hotels didn’t pay a lot of commission so it didn’t take off
• Travelweb.com, the first online hotel directory, launched in 1994
• The Internet Travel Network sold the first airline ticket online in 1995
• Expedia launched in 1996, funded by Microsoft, and are now one of the biggest travel agencies 
• In 2007, as the iPhone was released, more bookings were made online because mobile apps were now in use
• Airbnb was established in 2008
• HotelTonight, specifically for instant same-day hotel room bookings, was launched in 2011

If you enjoyed this article explaining what does a travel agency do, then I am sure you will enjoy these articles too-

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in USA 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in USA. Below you will find 31 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in USA offering in total 348 tours and holidays through-out USA. Combined they have received 172 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in USA are: Adventure and sport, Wildlife, landscapes and nature & Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history.

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29 Tour Operators in USA with 172 Reviews

Infinite Adventures

• Address 809 W Riordan 100-325, Flagstaff, USA
• Response Rate 100%
• Response Time 2 hours

• Address 2461 FM 778, Mineola, USA
• Response Rate 95%
• Response Time 1 hour

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

Expat Explore

• Address 10 Merryweather Place, London, England
• Response Rate 90%

Omega Tours

• Address 142 Westmount Avenue, Toronto, Canada

Intrepid Travel

• Address 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia

World Expeditions

• Address 1B Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London, England
• Response Rate 82%
• Response Time 3 hours

• Address Picquet House, St Peter Port, Guernsey, London, England

The Coyote Trip

• Address 182 Mayall Road, London, England

Luxury Gold

• Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
• Response Rate 60%

Doctor Gumbo Tours

• Address 823 Decatur St, New Orleans, USA
• Response Rate 50%

Indus Travels

• Address 233, 11951 Hammersmith Way, Richmond, Canada
• Response Rate 98%

Adventures Abroad

• Address 2148-20800 Westminster Highway, Richmond BC, Canada
• Response Rate 53%

• Response Rate 88%

• Address Nelson House, 55-59 Victoria Rd, Farnborough, England
• Response Rate 96%

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Top Travel Agencies in the USA: Leading Choices for Your Trips

Discover the best travel agencies in the usa to make your next adventure unforgettable.

The travel industry is an ever-evolving landscape, and finding the best travel agency in the USA can be a daunting task for both seasoned and first-time travelers. From planning family vacations to organizing corporate trips, travel agencies cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled a list of the top travel agencies in the USA, taking into account factors such as customer service, value for money, and the range of services offered. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or an adventurous excursion, you’ll find the perfect travel partner in this list.

1. One Nation Travel

Onenationtravel.com , an esteemed travel agency with offices in Princeton, New Jersey, Toronto, and Istanbul, Turkey, specializes in offering top-notch tours to destinations like Turkey , Greece , Egypt , Jordan , Morocco , Thailand , Vietnam , and more. Known for creating unique and unforgettable experiences, One Nation Travel provides a personalized approach, meticulous attention to detail, and strong connections with local communities. By catering to various preferences and budgets through an extensive selection of tailor-made tours and vacation packages, they ensure that every traveler can discover the captivating allure of these remarkable destinations.

2. American Express Travel

As a subsidiary of the world-renowned financial institution, American Express Travel offers top-notch travel planning services, especially for its cardholders. They provide personalized travel experiences, including access to exclusive deals, rewards points, and premium customer service. Their travel consultants are well-versed in designing unique itineraries, making American Express Travel a preferred choice for luxury and corporate travelers.

3. Liberty Travel

With over 65 years of experience, Liberty Travel is one of the oldest and most trusted travel agencies in the USA. They specialize in creating customized vacation packages, from romantic getaways to family adventures. Their team of experienced travel consultants ensures a seamless and stress-free travel experience, from booking flights and accommodations to arranging guided tours and activities.

4. Travel Leaders Group

Travel Leaders Group is a network of over 6,000 travel agencies, offering a wide range of services, from leisure and corporate travel to luxury cruises and adventure tours. Their extensive network allows them to provide personalized and tailor-made experiences for every traveler. With a strong focus on customer service and satisfaction, Travel Leaders Group is a reliable option for travelers who want a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.

5. AAA Travel

AAA Travel, a division of the American Automobile Association, offers travel services to its millions of members across the United States. They provide a variety of travel planning resources, including trip-planning tools, exclusive discounts, and member benefits. AAA Travel is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a reliable agency with a well-established reputation and the added advantage of roadside assistance.

6. Virtuoso

Virtuoso is a luxury travel network that connects travelers with a global network of top-tier travel agencies, hotels, tour operators, and cruise lines. They specialize in creating bespoke travel experiences, from high-end accommodations to exclusive access to events and experiences. Their experienced travel advisors can curate personalized itineraries, making Virtuoso the go-to choice for luxury travelers.

7. G Adventures

For travelers seeking an adventure-packed vacation, G Adventures is a leading choice. They offer small group tours, safaris, and expeditions to over 100 countries, focusing on responsible and sustainable travel. With a commitment to supporting local communities, G Adventures provides authentic, immersive experiences that allow travelers to connect with local cultures and environments.

Journey’s End:

Selecting the ideal travel agency for you will depend on your unique needs, preferences, and budget. This comprehensive guide showcases some of the top travel agencies in the USA, each offering a distinct set of services and experiences. Whether you’re planning a luxurious retreat, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled getaway, these agencies can assist you in crafting the perfect itinerary while providing exceptional customer service throughout your journey. From the culturally rich tours offered by One Nation Travel, which is known for its regional presence and offices in various locations, to the bespoke luxury experiences of Virtuoso, this list caters to every type of traveler. Before making a decision, take into account your travel goals, desired level of customization, and the overall value provided by each agency. By conducting thorough research and consulting with travel experts, you can ensure a seamless and unforgettable travel experience that meets your dreams and expectations.

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Top 15 Tourism Marketing Agencies to Consider in 2024

By Alexandra Kazakova 16 min READ | Jan 18 2024

Facing the challenge of effectively marketing your tourism business?

You're not alone.

Many struggle to stand out in the competitive tourism industry.

What's why we've compiled a comprehensive list to guide you through.

• Discover the top 15 tourism marketing agencies: learn about industry leaders.
• Find out unique selling points: each agency's distinct approach to making your business shine.
• Key services offered: from digital marketing to bespoke campaigns, find out what suits your needs.
• Notable clients: learn from the success stories of other businesses these agencies have transformed.

Continue reading to find your perfect marketing partner and transform your tourism strategy today!

TL;DR: The Best Tourism Marketing Agencies

• inBeat : Specializes in paid media, UGC and micro-influencer marketing, and offers access to a premium network of content creators for authentic brand promotion.
• The Tourism Marketing Agency : International expertise in educating and inspiring the travel sector, making them a top choice for global outreach.
• Noble Studios : Renowned for their deep industry experience, managing marketing programs for destinations and hospitality brands worldwide.
• Blend : Excels in personalized strategies and market research to position your brand effectively in the tourism sector.
• Miles Partnership : Focuses on equitable marketing practices and creating forward-thinking content marketing solutions for the travel industry.

Benefits of Hiring a Tourism Marketing Agency

Hiring a tourism marketing agency can provide numerous benefits for businesses in the travel and hospitality sector.

• Firstly, these agencies bring a wealth of industry expertise understanding the nuances of the travel market and its ever-changing trends. They can develop strategies tailored to your unique brand, helping you stand out in a crowded marketplace.
• Additionally, tourism marketing agencies have access to a vast network of influencers and content creators, facilitating authentic and engaging campaigns. Their data-driven approach ensures that marketing efforts are effective and that you get the maximum out of your budget.
• Partnering with a tourism marketing agency can lead to increased brand visibility, higher conversion rates, and sustained growth in the competitive tourism industry.

A Deep Dive into Each Top 15 Tourism Marketing Agency

inBeat is a top performance creative agency in the world of tourism marketing, recognized for its expertise in paid advertising blended with micro-influencer marketing.

With a focus on helping travel businesses, they offer scalable solutions and personalized campaigns.

What sets them apart is their exclusive partnership with the top 2% of content creators, providing access to a vast network of high-engagement influencers.

This agency excels at connecting brands with authentic voices, making it an ideal choice for those seeking genuine and effective influencer marketing strategies.

With inBeat, you can tap into a world of influencer possibilities to elevate your tourism brand's reach and impact.

Various case studies testify to their results, and their partnership with New Balance proves their ability to create geo-targeted campaigns that drive results.

Industries: Tourism, Travel, Hospitality, Education, Automotive, Mobile Applications, CPG and DTC brands, Retail, eCommerce, Agencies, Fashion, Food, CPG, B2B

Notable clients: Nissan, New Balance, Deux par Deux, Linktree, Hopper, Disney

Key services:

• Tourism & Travel Digital Marketing
• Social Media Advertising
• UGC Creation
• TikTok and Instagram Marketing & Advertising
• Micro-Influencer and nano-influencer marketing
• Paid Advertising

Reason to work with inBeat: Harness the power of micro-influencers

inBeat stands out for its exceptional partnership with the top 2% of content creators, granting you access to a vast network of micro-influencers and nano-influencers who can authentically promote your brand.

2. The Tourism Marketing Agency

The Tourism Marketing Agency distinguishes itself as an international digital tourism expert with a commitment to education and inspiration for travel brands.

Their mission revolves around empowering tour, activity, and travel operators to acquire customers and grow their businesses.

This agency's expertise lies in its team of dedicated travel and tourism marketing professionals poised to guide brands toward success.

Their focus on global partnerships and industry connections positions them as a vital resource for businesses seeking to expand their international presence.

With a dedication to fostering growth and innovation, The Tourism Marketing Agency is a trusted partner for brands aspiring to make their mark in the travel industry with its digital marketing services.

Industries: Tourism, Travel

Notable clients: Bermudaful, Alaskan Sights and Bites, Overland Ireland Tours Case Study, Rewind Dubrovnik Case Study

• Marketing Automation
• Google Ad Management
• Web Development
• Digital Marketing

Reason to work with The Tourism Marketing Agency: International expertise

This agency's unique feature lies in its extensive international connections, making it your go-to partner for expanding your tourism brand's reach across borders and cultures.

3. Noble Studios

Noble Studios is a creative and performance digital marketing agency renowned for its deep expertise in tourism, travel, and the hospitality industry.

Their team boasts extensive experience in managing marketing programs for destination marketing organizations, digital marketing services, and revenue management for various entities in the tourism industry.

With a focus on innovation and personalized digital destination marketing solutions, Noble Studios stands out as a go-to choice for brands seeking to transform potential travelers into loyal customers.

Their dedication to award-winning design and brand storytelling positions them as an industry leader in creating captivating experiences that resonate with audiences.

For those looking to make a significant impact in the tourism sector, Noble Studios offers a wealth of experience and creativity to achieve business goals.

Industries: Tourism, Travel, Hospitality

Notable clients: San Luis Obispo, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, Yosemite, Nintex

• Brand Strategy & Brand Services
• Search Engine Optimization
• Paid Media Marketing
• Creative Services
• Content Marketing Services

Reason to work with Noble Studios: Industry insiders

With a team that has managed marketing programs for destination marketing organizations and marketed various tourism entities worldwide, Noble Studios boasts unparalleled insider knowledge of the tourism and hospitality sector.

Blend is a full-service travel marketing agency known for its close collaboration with tour and activity businesses.

Their unique approach involves aligning strategy, branding, business goals, and marketing to foster growth and profitability.

What sets them apart is their ability to help brands find the right positioning in the market and in the minds of their customers.

Blend can conduct in-depth market research and gather customer insights to inform digital marketing services, strategies, and tactics, ensuring that your brand stands out in the competitive tourism industry.

With a focus on customer clarity, competitiveness, and future growth, Blend is an ideal partner for any tourism business looking to thrive in the world of travel and exploration.

Notable clients: 360 CHICAGO, Old South Carriage Company, Legacy Mountain Ziplines, The Forge Adventure Park

• Marketing Strategy
• Photography & Video Production
• Advertising Campaigns
• Email Marketing

Reason to work with Blend: Personalized strategies

Blend is known for its tailored approach to marketing, working closely with travel companies to craft customized strategies that align with their brand's unique identity and goals.

5. Miles Partnership

Miles Partnership  is a strategic marketing company that specializes exclusively in travel and tourism.

They collaborate with over 90 destinations and hospitality businesses to create forward-thinking content marketing solutions, both in print and digital formats.

What makes them unique is their commitment to evolving equitable and inclusive marketing practices, ensuring that campaigns reach a diverse audience.

Miles Partnership actively engages with the travel industry through conferences, speaking engagements, sponsorships, and educational events.

With a focus on providing effective strategies,, creative content, and digital development solutions, Miles Partnership is an essential resource for businesses aiming to make a meaningful impact in the travel and tourism sector.

Notable clients: San Francisco Travel Association, Explore Boone, Hawks Cay Resort, Kentucky Tourism

• Strategic Consulting
• Branding & Creative
• Content Creation & Distribution
• Digital Development & Optimization
• Media Planning & Buying
• Revenue Generation & Coop Programs

Reason to work with Miles Partnership:  Equitable marketing

Miles Partnership places a particular emphasis on equitable and inclusive digital marketing services and practices, ensuring that your brand's campaigns resonate with a diverse audience.

6. MassLive Media

MassLive Media is a leading media and marketing company located in New England. Their distinctive feature lies in their ability to combine comprehensive digital marketing services with superior audience targeting capabilities.

They harness first-party data, traveler decision-making insights, and precise market analysis to deliver highly effective messaging through various marketing channels such as search marketing, display, and content.

MassLive Media's expertise in inspiring potential customers motivated to travel and their partnership with local influencers make them a valuable asset for tourism marketing.

Their commitment to driving tourism to your destination and their broad capabilities make them a compelling choice for businesses in the tourism sector.

Industries: Travel & Tourism, Cannabis, Banking & Finance, Education, B2B, Recruitment, Retail, Small Business

Notable clients: CleanSlate Recovery Center, Springfield Rescue Mission, Springfield Technical Community College

• Mobile Device Targeting
• Social Conversation
• Content Production

Reason to work with MassLive Media: Local insights, global reach

This agency combines local insights with precise market analysis, delivering targeted messages to travelers who are already inspired to explore your destination.

Thrive is an award-winning digital marketing agency with a focus on helping tourism firms navigate challenging times with clever and mindful digital marketing solutions.

They boast a team of digital marketing experts dedicated to client success, with an emphasis on collaboration.

Thrive's strength lies in its extensive experience and commitment to incorporating client input into its digital marketing solutions and strategies.

They value their clients' ideas and ensure that their solutions align with the brand's goals and representation on all marketing channels.

With Thrive's expertise, marketing plan and client-centered approach, businesses can excel in the tourism industry even in the most trying circumstances.

Industries: Travel & Tourism, Education and Finance, Health/Medical, Home Services, Manufacturing

Notable clients: Hollow HIll Farm Event Center, Hidive, Geoforce, IDville

• Social Media Marketing
• Web Design And Development
• Video Production
• Content Writing
• Online Reputation Management

Reason to work with Thrive: Clever, mindful marketing

Thrive excels in crafting clever and mindful digital marketing strategies and messages that generate leads and sales, helping your tourism firm thrive even in challenging times.

8. BlackDog Advertising

BlackDog Advertising is a full-service marketing and advertising agency known for its data-driven and innovative approach.

They have a unique understanding of regional and localized marketing efforts, with a system that identifies highly targeted audiences and delivers real-time trackable results.

What sets them apart is their fusion of artistry, technology, and business strategy to solve complex problems and drive successful solutions.

With over 30 years of experience perfecting their formula, BlackDog Advertising offers a creative edge that resonates with clients seeking measurable growth and captivating creative campaigns.

Their commitment to delivering results through analytics and creativity positions them as a valuable partner in the tourism marketing arena.

Notable clients: Luminosa Chinese Lantern Festival, Ghosts & Gravestones, Arlington National Cemetery Tours, San Diego SEAL

• Business Consulting
• Strategy Development
• Social Media Management
• Copywriting + Content Strategy

Reason to work with BlackDog Advertising: Data-driven solutions

BlackDog Advertising brings a data-driven approach to the table, providing measurable growth through sound analytics and captivating creative solutions.

9. TOP Agency

TOP Agency stands out as a dynamic digital marketing company that leverages its team of digital marketing experts, news-leading data and research, as well as an international influencer network to create authentic and modern campaign strategies.

Their unique approach aims to effectively activate and engage target audiences, turning industry changes into business growth opportunities.

What sets them apart is their ability to minimize ad spending while generating organic engagement that is easier to convert.

With a focus on innovative content and content strategy, TOP Agency spurs action from the audience, making campaigns a significant driver of growth.

Their commitment to blending data-driven strategies with creative content makes them a compelling choice for tourism businesses seeking to thrive.

Industries: Tourism, Travel, Hospitality,  B2B, CPG, Education, Finance, Food & Beverage, Pets, Tech

Notable clients: Spinnaker Support, Marchex, Appvance, DroneDeploy

• Creative Production
• Influencer Marketing
• Public Relations

Reason to work with TOP Agency: Rapid industry response

TOP Agency specializes in turning rapid industry changes into your business's rapid growth, creating organic engagement that's easier to convert for your tourism business.

DANA is a full-service lifestyle marketing agency with a deep commitment to creating experiential marketing ideas for premier hotel, resort, travel, and lifestyle brands.

They pride themselves on their ahead-of-the-curve technology and passionate project portfolio, driven by an eclectic crew of visionaries.

Their network of national ad agency offices allows them to provide personalized attention to lifestyle companies with fanatical devotion.

Armed with enthusiastic creativity and a portfolio full of passionate projects, DANA is well-equipped to bring your brand's vision to life.

With over 50 combined years in the industry and deep global relationships, they offer innovative solutions to help your brand shine in the competitive tourism sector.

Industries: Tourism, Hospitality, Lifestyle, Golf, Meetings, Real Estate

Notable clients: Brandy Wine Valley, Royal Isabela, New Jersey visitnj.org, The Hawaiian Islands

• Search Engine Marketing

Reason to work with DANA:   Fanatical devotion

DANA's team of digital marketing experts offers fanatical devotion to your brand, providing one-on-one attention and enthusiastic creativity to drive customers and revenue.

DCI is a leading international marketing agency with over 60 years of experience, specializing in economic development, tourism, and talent attraction marketing.

Their team of in-house creative placemakers is skilled at developing and executing marketing campaigns that attract more visitors, businesses, and talent to client destinations.

DCI collaborates with tourism clients worldwide to create tourism marketing campaigns, generating demand and conversions among various customer segments in the tourism sector.

Their solutions to clients and marketing plans are rooted in industry research, identifying trends in traveler behavior to drive effective campaigns.

With a rich history and expertise in the field, DCI offers a strategic and data-driven approach to help destinations and tourism clients succeed in the travel and tourism industry.

Notable clients: WonderFL, Carolina Core, Visit Scotland, Tulsa Regional Chamber

• Branding & Marketing Strategy
• Business Events
• Foreign Direct Investment
• Hospitality Investment Attraction
• Media Buying
• Museum Marketing
• Website Products

Reason to work with DCI : Economic development expertise

DCI's specialization in economic development, tourism, and talent attraction marketing positions them as the ideal partner for increasing visitor arrivals and business growth.

12. Digitalcoconut

Digitalcoconut is an innovative travel marketing agency with a deep understanding of engaging and communicating with travelers effectively.

Their skill lies in crafting marketing messages that resonate with consumers and make brands shine. With decades of combined experience in the industry, they have established profound relationships worldwide.

Digitalcoconut is known for its flexibility and problem-solving capabilities, going above and beyond to exceed business owner's expectations.

Their expertise and global connections make them valuable partners for businesses looking to make a memorable impact in the tourism and travel sector.

Notable clients: Footprints Villa, Kiko Villa, Sea Glass Villa, Eden Life Magazine

• Logos & Branding
• Website Design & Development
• App Development
• Content Creation
• CRM & Email Marketing
• Advertising & Media
• Distribution Channel Management

Reason to work with Digitalcoconut: Heartstrings and purse string

Digitalcoconut excels in crafting marketing messages that tug on the heartstrings and purse strings of travelers, making your brand shine in the competitive tourism market.

13. Tourism Tiger

Tourism Tiger is a dynamic marketing agency focusing on turning potential travelers into bookers.

They excel in creating lightning-fast, specialized tour websites tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in the tours and activities industry.

With a dedicated team of digital marketing experts, they work diligently to increase brand visibility, organic search performance, and online revenue.

Tourism Tiger ensures that their clients' brands and websites utilize the right resources to boost leads and conversions effectively.

Their expertise in the tourism sector positions them as a valuable resource for businesses seeking to optimize their online presence and drive bookings.

Notable clients: Skydive Cross Keys, Insight Cities, Smooth Rapids, Roam Wild Adventure

• Content/Blog Writing
• Reputation Management
• Social Management
• Marketing Strategies

Reason to work with Tourism Tiger: Lightning-fast tour websites

Tourism Tiger combines highly specialized tour websites with digital marketing expertise to increase your brand's online revenue by turning lookers into bookers.

14. The Creative Collective

The Creative Collective , established in 2007, is a leading independent and full-service marketing agency with extensive capabilities and experience across a wide range of industries, including digital marketing.

They have a team with in-depth knowledge and experience in the tourism and travel industry, both nationally and internationally.

The agency has worked with a variety of tourism-related businesses, including tourism operators, attractions, airports, and hotels, demonstrating their versatility and adaptability to different tourism sectors.

The Creative Collective is known for its ability to navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities faced by tourism and travel businesses, from lockdowns to changing visitor dynamics.

With a strong focus on regional and independent businesses, they are a valuable partner for those seeking marketing solutions in the tourism industry.

Industries: Travel, Tourism, Retail, eCommerce, Not for Profit, Medical & Health, Real Estate, Industrial sectors.

Notable clients: Port Stephens Tourism, City of Newcastle, Destination Scenic Rim, Luxury Cruise Escapes

• Branding and Logo Design Services
• Outsourced Marketing
• Web Design & Development
• PR Services

Reason to work with The Creative Collective: Regional expertise

With a regional focus and deep understanding of the tourism industry, The Creative Collective is a trusted partner for navigating your specific market's unique challenges and opportunities.

TTM , or Travel & Tourism Marketing Ltd., is a boutique, full-service agency specializing in travel and tourism representation in the UK and Ireland.

They offer comprehensive integrated services, including product development, sales, public relations, training, and consumer and trade marketing.

What sets them apart is their friendly team of travel professionals who bring an engaging approach to their work.

They focus on understanding and enhancing their clients' unique positioning within the marketplace, providing bespoke and cost-effective solutions for growth.

TTM's consistency, experience, creativity, and strong connections make it a contemporary agency with the expertise to deliver results for tourism and travel businesses.

Notable clients: Visit Baton Rouge, Cornwall Discovered, LouiSiana, Discover New England

• Digital Advertising Campaigns
• Developing plans with influencers and content providers
• Social Media Activity
• Marketing Planning

Reason to work with TTM: Bespoke full-service providers

TTM takes pride in being bespoke full-service providers, offering contemporary, creative, and professional solutions tailored to your brand's unique positioning within the marketplace.

Key Factors in Choosing Tourism Marketing Agency

When selecting a tourism marketing agency, consider the following factors:

• Industry experience and track record.
• Understanding of your target audience and ability to craft tailored strategies.
• Transparency and communication, including clear reporting and regular updates on campaign performance.
• Approach to technology and data analytics to optimize marketing efforts and achieve measurable results.

By assessing these factors, you can choose an agency that aligns with your brand's goals and helps you navigate the complexities of the tourism industry effectively.

Selecting the right tourism marketing agency is a crucial decision for the success of your brand.

After exploring the top agencies in this article, one agency stands out as a compelling choice - inBeat .

With a focus on micro-influencer marketing and a partnership with the top 2% of content creators, inBeat offers a unique advantage.

They excel at delivering authentic and engaging campaigns that resonate with travelers, leveraging the power of influential voices.

Furthermore, inBeat's versatility, scalable services, and personalized approach make them an ideal partner for businesses of all sizes.

By choosing inBeat, you are not just selecting an agency but also a strategic ally dedicated to elevating your brand's visibility and impact in the tourism sector.

So why settle for the ordinary when you can collaborate with the extraordinary?

Choose inBeat and embark on a journey towards tourism marketing excellence.

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The 10 best online travel agencies in 2024

The top 10 online travel agencies.

• Booking.com
• Lastminute.com

Best online travel agencies for business travel

1. travelperk.

Main offerings and features:

• Industry-leading travel inventory
• Flexible booking with FlexiPerk
• Safety alerts with TravelCare
• Integrated travel policy & approval flows
• Centralized invoicing
• Easy & real-time expense reports
• Carbon offsetting with GreenPerk
• 24/7 fast customer support in target 15s
• VAT reclaim
• Integration with 3rd party tools , such as expense management or HR software like Expensify and BambooHR

Save time and money on your business travel with TravelPerk

2. sap concur.

• Works with some of the biggest brands
• Easy tracking and reporting of expenses for expense reports
• Many connected apps, such as Uber and Airbnb for cars and hotels
• One solution for a variety of business travel spending

Click below to compare both platforms’ features and benefits

• Ample integrations
• Award-winning mobile app
• Employee-centric travel management

Click below for a more detailed comparison between both platforms:

Best online travel agencies for leisure travel, 1. booking.com.

• Intuitive booking tool and website
• Flight + Hotel booking for easily planning trips with no cross-referencing travel websites
• Simple car rental options and taxi hire
• Available in over 40 different languages and offers over half a million properties across 207 countries
• You can book experiences in your destination city to entertain you on your travels
• Genius rewards program

• Simple interface and booking tool
• Deals when making more than one booking
• 38 different languages and offers a 24-hour, multilingual customer support service
• Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking
• Millions of reviews to help make your decision

3. Lastminute.com

• Filter hotels according to budgets, star ratings, guest ratings, board types, and more
• ATOL protection on flight + hotel bundles
• Flash sales for last-minute deals
• Payment plans to spread out the cost of travel
• Extra entertainment booking for your trips, like theatrical productions and day trips
• Gift cards for gifting travel

• Expedia rewards for hotels, cars, and more
• Experienced support
• Compare cruise lines
• Big savings when booking flights, hotels, and car
• Operates in nearly 70 countries and in over 35 different languages
• Luxury travel options

• Book hotels, flights, cars, and bundles
• 24/7 support
• Lower prices on the app
• Great last-minute deals for spontaneous travel

6. Bookmundi

Best online travel agencies for flights

1. skyscanner.

• Super flexible booking filters
• Cheaper flights and hotels than other OTAs
• Price alerts for travel routes of interest
• Easy-to-use booking tool and UI
• Hundreds of location and currency options
• One-way, return, and multi-city travel options

2. Kiwi.com

• Simple flight booking tool
• Partnerships with Booking.com and Rentalcars.com
• Discover deals anywhere with the option to open up your search
• Easy-to-use app

How do online travel agencies work?

What are the advantages of booking through an online travel agency.

• Access to comparison tools
• Peer reviews to help you with your decisions
• Flexible cancellation policies
• All your travel in one place
• Local flights and deals

Rewards programs

Comparison tools, peer reviews, flexible cancellation.

Flexiperk: Cancel anytime, anywhere. Get a minimum of 80% of your money back.

One account for all of your travel needs, a local approach to global travel, wrapping up.

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

• See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
• Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books and blog posts have you covered.
• Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us on social for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

8 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023

Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phones Before Traveling Internationally

Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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The Tourism Marketing Agency

Digital marketing for tours, activities, experiences, accommodation, and travel.

Free Tour Operator Website

A strong foundation starts with a strong online presence, so you need a website that will perform on all levels.

We will set up a new WordPress website using our amazing template. We can even host this for you.

Tourism Marketing Packages

But before winning the approval of loyal customers, you have to attract them in the first place.

Whether you provide food and drink tours, bike tours, manage a zoo, run movie-themed tours, or provide a hop-on hop-off bus tour, you must first have a better understanding of the digital landscape.

How to Turn your Lookers into Bookers

Over 400 pages of practical digital marketing advice with downloadable worksheets and video guides.

With this book, I will help you figure out where your tours and activities business currently sits, and the path it needs to take in order to grow. Includes practical tools and worksheets.

What our customers say on Google

Our digital marketing services, free tour website, seo & content.

Rank higher, receive more website traffic, and increase your organic revenue potential.

We will optimise your current website content while creating new blogs and travel guides to keep your site up-to-date, boosting SEO. 

Facebook Ad Funnel

Grow your brand awareness, trust, enquiries and bookings with our targeted Facebook Ad Funnel.

We will create a series of Facebook ads that will take your customer along a journey to build need, want, and trust. Ultimately, we create sales.

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Our competitor analysis will help identify strengths and weaknesses in your competition.

We will identify competitors’ key performance indicators, learning from their mistakes and their successes, defining specific areas of improvement for your campaigns.

Google Ad Management

Google Search and Display Ads are a great way to gain quick traffic, leads and sales.

Google Ads is a little like the stock market. You must watch your campaigns at least every few days to make sure they are generating a good return.

Marketing Automation

Keep your customers interested and guide them along the purchase journey.

In conjunction with our marketing strategies, we will create an automated email series of inspirational content to entice your customers.

Success Stories

Escapegoat Adventures Case Study

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We want to turn your lookers into bookers..

The Tourism Marketing Agency is an international digital tourism agency. We can help you tell your story. One that inspires and sparks the imagination, turning lookers… into bookers.

We do not have clients or customers, we have partners. And we want to build long-lasting relationships, helping operators through the many challenges of promoting a business online. We’ve found that honesty and strong communication as the backbone of this successful relationship.

Tours and Activities Podcasts

Latest tourism marketing advice from tourpreneur and the digital tourism show.

The Digital Tourism Show and Tourpreneur are a tourism and destination video and audio podcast advice series covering everything form social media, websites, video, and experiential marketing. Everything posted here has one aim: to help you increase booking rates, value, and revenue.

The Power of Consumer Generated Content to Boost your Bookings

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Chris’ Top 8 Strategies to Marketing to the Luxury Consumer

Also available on the following platforms, latest tourism news, advice, and guides.

With regular advice, news, and everything related to the tourism industry, our blog is a rich resource for anyone working in the tours and activities industry.

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

What Questions Should I Ask A Travel Agency

Published: November 29, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Freddie Sandstrom

Introduction

Planning a trip can be an exciting and exhilarating experience. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, one of the first steps in the planning process is often seeking the assistance of a travel agency. Travel agencies can provide invaluable expertise and resources to ensure that your trip goes smoothly and meets your expectations.

While travel agencies are there to help you plan and book your dream vacation, it’s important to remember that not all travel agencies are created equal. To ensure that you’re working with a reputable and reliable agency, it’s crucial to ask the right questions. By asking thoughtful and relevant questions, you can gain valuable insights into the agency’s services, policies, and expertise.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential questions you should ask a travel agency before making any commitments. From general inquiries to more specific ones about destinations, accommodation, transportation, travel insurance, costs, itineraries, safety, and cancellations, we’ve got you covered. By arming yourself with these questions, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions and have peace of mind during your journey.

Why Should I Ask Questions?

When it comes to planning your next trip, asking questions is an essential part of the process. It allows you to gather important information, clarify any uncertainties, and ensure that your travel agency understands your needs and preferences. Here are a few key reasons why asking questions is crucial when working with a travel agency:

1. Gain a deeper understanding: Asking questions helps you gain a comprehensive understanding of the travel agency’s services, policies, and expertise. By asking about their experience in planning similar trips or their knowledge of specific destinations, you can assess their suitability for your travel needs.

2. Ensure a personalized experience: Every traveler is unique, with different preferences, budgets, and expectations. By asking questions, you can ensure that the travel agency takes into account your specific requirements and tailors the trip accordingly. Whether it’s dietary restrictions, special accommodations, or specific activities, clear communication is key to creating a personalized travel experience.

3. Verify credibility and reliability: Asking questions allows you to verify the credibility and reliability of the travel agency. Inquire about their licensing and certifications, affiliations with professional organizations, or customer reviews and testimonials. This will give you confidence in their ability to handle your travel arrangements effectively and provide exceptional service.

4. Mitigate risks and uncertainties: Traveling comes with inherent risks, from flight delays and cancellations to unexpected emergencies. By asking questions about travel insurance coverage, cancellation policies, and emergency assistance services, you can better understand how the travel agency handles these situations. This helps you make informed decisions and be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

5. Optimize your travel experience: Asking questions allows you to optimize your travel experience by delving into the finer details. Inquire about recommended activities, sightseeing opportunities, local customs, and hidden gems. The more information you gather, the better equipped you’ll be to make the most of your trip and create lasting memories.

Remember, asking questions is not only important during the initial planning stages but also throughout the entire process. Regular communication with your travel agency ensures that you stay informed, address any concerns, and make necessary adjustments to your itinerary as needed.

In the next sections, we’ll delve into specific questions that you should ask a travel agency to ensure a smooth and memorable travel experience.

General Questions

When starting your conversation with a travel agency, it’s essential to gather some general information to get an overview of their services and to assess their compatibility with your travel needs. Here are some key general questions to ask:

• How long have you been in business? Inquire about the agency’s experience and track record. A well-established agency with a solid reputation is more likely to provide reliable service.
• Are you accredited or affiliated with any professional travel organizations? This question helps validate the agency’s credibility and professionalism. Look for affiliations with industry organizations such as ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) or IATA (International Air Transport Association).
• Can you provide references or customer testimonials? Asking for references or testimonials from previous clients can give you an idea of the agency’s customer satisfaction and their expertise in handling diverse travel needs.
• What types of trips do you specialize in? Some travel agencies specialize in certain types of trips, such as luxury travel, adventure travel, or family vacations. Understanding their expertise can help ensure they are the right fit for your specific travel interests.
• What services do you offer? This question allows you to determine the extent of their services. Do they only book flights and accommodations, or do they also offer assistance with visas, travel insurance, and activities?
• How do you handle emergencies or issues during the trip? It’s important to know how the agency handles unexpected events such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Ask about their emergency support services and their availability to assist you during your travels.
• What is your preferred communication method? Establishing the best way to communicate with the agency is essential for seamless coordination. Whether it’s via email, phone, or a dedicated client portal, knowing how to reach them and their response times can help ensure effective communication.
• What are the fees or charges associated with your services? Understanding the agency’s fee structure is crucial for budgeting your trip. Inquire about any booking fees, service charges, or cancellation fees to avoid any surprises later on.

Asking these general questions will provide you with a solid foundation of information about the travel agency and help you assess their capabilities and compatibility with your travel needs. In the next sections, we’ll dive into more specific questions about destinations, accommodation, transportation, and more.

Questions about Destinations

When planning a trip, one of the first considerations is selecting the right destination. Whether you have a specific location in mind or need assistance in choosing, asking key questions about destinations can help you make an informed decision. Here are some questions to ask a travel agency regarding your desired destinations:

• What destinations do you recommend for my travel preferences? Share your interests, such as adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or beach destinations, and inquire about their recommendations based on your preferences.
• What are the popular tourist attractions or must-see landmarks in a specific destination? If you have a particular destination in mind, ask the travel agency about the top attractions, such as iconic landmarks, historical sites, or natural wonders, to ensure your itinerary includes these highlights.
• Are there any off-the-beaten-path or lesser-known destinations worth considering? If you’re an adventurous traveler or simply seeking a unique experience, ask for recommendations on hidden gems or alternative destinations that may not be as famous but offer exceptional experiences.
• What is the best time to visit a specific destination? Understand the climate, peak seasons, and any annual events that may impact your travel experience. This will help you plan your trip while considering weather conditions and avoiding overcrowded tourist seasons.
• Are there any travel advisories or safety concerns in a specific destination? It’s crucial to stay informed about potential risks or travel advisories in your chosen destination. Ask the travel agency about any safety concerns or precautions you should be aware of before finalizing your travel plans.
• What are the visa requirements or any necessary travel documents for visiting a specific destination? Inquire about visa requirements, passport validity, and any other necessary travel documents to ensure you’re adequately prepared before your trip.
• What are the local customs, etiquette, and cultural expectations in a specific destination? Understanding the local customs and cultural norms in your chosen destination is important to ensure respectful behavior and an immersive travel experience. Ask the agency for insights on local customs, tipping practices, dress codes, and other cultural considerations.
• Are there any specific health or vaccination requirements for traveling to a specific destination? Some destinations have specific health or vaccination requirements for entry. Ask the travel agency about any necessary vaccinations or health precautions you should take before traveling.

Asking these questions about destinations will not only help you choose the right place for your trip but also ensure that you’re well-informed and prepared for your chosen destination. In the next sections, we’ll explore questions about accommodation, transportation, travel insurance, and more.

Questions about Accommodation

Accommodation plays a crucial role in the overall travel experience, and finding the right place to stay can greatly enhance your trip. When discussing accommodation options with a travel agency, be sure to ask these important questions:

• What types of accommodation options are available? Inquire about the range of options, such as hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, or bed and breakfasts. This will help you determine which type of accommodation suits your preferences and budget.
• Can you recommend accommodation options in my desired location? If you have a specific destination in mind, ask the agency for their recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.
• What amenities are available at the accommodation? Whether it’s free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, fitness center, or complimentary breakfast, understanding the amenities provided will help you choose the most suitable accommodation for your needs.
• What is the proximity of the accommodation to attractions, transportation, and local amenities? Ask about the location of the accommodation in relation to the places you plan to visit and the availability of transportation options in the area.
• Can you provide photos or virtual tours of the accommodation? Visual representation of the accommodation can give you a better idea of the rooms, facilities, and overall ambiance. Requesting photos or virtual tours can help you make an informed decision.
• What is the cancellation policy for the accommodation? It’s important to understand the cancellation policy to avoid any unnecessary charges in case of changes to your travel plans. Inquire about any fees or restrictions associated with cancellation or modifications.
• Is travel insurance available for the accommodation? Ask if the travel agency offers or recommends travel insurance specifically for the accommodation, which can provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances that may affect your stay.
• How do I make payments for the accommodation? Inquire about the payment process, including the accepted forms of payment and any deposit requirements. Clarify whether the agency handles the payment or if it needs to be made directly with the accommodation provider.

By asking these questions about accommodation, you can ensure that you choose the right place to stay during your trip, ensuring comfort and convenience. In the next sections, we’ll explore questions related to transportation, travel insurance, costs, itineraries, safety, and more.

Questions about Transportation

Transportation is a crucial aspect of any trip, as it determines how you navigate your destination and reach your desired attractions. When discussing transportation options with a travel agency, it’s important to ask the following questions:

• What are the available transportation options for reaching my destination? Inquire about the different modes of transportation available, such as flights, trains, buses, or rental cars. Understanding the options will help you choose the most convenient and efficient way to get to your destination.
• Can you provide assistance with booking flights? If air travel is necessary for your trip, ask the travel agency if they can handle flight bookings on your behalf. Inquire about any special fares, discounts, or additional services they can offer.
• Are there any transportation passes or cards available for local travel? Some destinations offer transportation passes or cards that provide unlimited travel on public transportation systems. Ask the agency if such options are available for your chosen destination and if they can assist with obtaining them.
• What is the best mode of transportation within the destination? Inquire about the most efficient and convenient modes of transportation for getting around once you’re at your destination. This can include options like public transportation, taxis, rideshares, or rental cars.
• What is the cost of transportation within the destination? Understanding the transportation costs within your destination will help you budget your trip accordingly. Ask about average fares or rates for different modes of transportation to get an idea of the expenses you may incur.
• Is transportation included in any of the tour packages or activities? If you’re booking tours or activities through the travel agency, ask if transportation to and from the activity is included. This can save you the hassle of arranging separate transportation.
• Are there any special considerations for transportation, such as accessibility or child-friendly options? If you have specific needs, such as accessibility requirements or traveling with young children, inquire about transportation options that cater to those needs.
• Are there any specific transportation regulations or restrictions to be aware of in the destination? Some destinations may have unique transportation regulations or restrictions. Ask the travel agency about any specific rules or limitations to ensure you’re aware and compliant during your travels.

By asking these questions about transportation, you can ensure that you have a smooth and efficient way to get around your destination, allowing you to make the most of your travel experience. In the next sections, we’ll explore questions about travel insurance, costs, itineraries, safety, and more.

Questions about Travel Insurance

Travel insurance provides essential protection and peace of mind during your trip. To ensure that you have adequate coverage, it’s important to ask the following questions about travel insurance when working with a travel agency:

• Do you offer travel insurance? Inquire if the travel agency offers their own travel insurance policy or if they can recommend reputable insurance providers.
• What does the travel insurance cover? Ask for details about what the insurance policy covers, including medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, emergency medical evacuation, or other benefits.
• Are there any exclusions or limitations to the coverage? Understand any limitations or exclusions in the travel insurance policy. For example, pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk activities, or specific destinations may have limited coverage.
• What are the costs associated with travel insurance? Inquire about the premiums and costs associated with the travel insurance. Understand if the cost is a one-time fee or based on the duration and type of coverage you select.
• What is the process for filing a claim? Understand how to initiate a claim in case of an emergency or an unforeseen event. Inquire about the required documentation and the process for submitting a claim.
• Do I need travel insurance if I already have medical insurance? If you already have medical insurance, ask if it provides coverage for international travel. Understanding the extent of your existing coverage will help you determine if additional travel insurance is necessary.
• Does the travel insurance provide 24/7 emergency assistance? Inquire about the availability of round-the-clock emergency assistance services provided by the travel insurance company. This can be critical in case of emergencies or when you need immediate assistance during your trip.
• Can I customize my travel insurance coverage? Ask if the travel agency or insurance provider offers options to customize the coverage based on your specific needs or preferences.

By asking these questions about travel insurance, you can make an informed decision about the coverage that best suits your travel requirements. Remember, travel insurance is essential for protecting yourself financially and emotionally in the event of unexpected situations during your trip. In the next sections, we’ll explore questions about costs, itineraries, safety, cancellations, and more.

Questions about Costs and Payment

Understanding the costs associated with your trip and the payment process is essential for effective budgeting and planning. When discussing costs and payment with a travel agency, consider asking the following questions:

• What are the estimated costs for the entire trip? Inquire about the approximate costs, including flights, accommodation, transportation, activities, and any additional services or fees to get a comprehensive understanding of the expected expenses.
• Are there any hidden fees or charges? Ask if there are any additional fees or charges that may not be initially apparent. Clarify if taxes, service fees, or surcharges are included in the quoted prices.
• What is the payment schedule? Understand the payment schedule, including any required deposits and the due dates for final payments. This will help you plan your finances accordingly.
• What forms of payment do you accept? Inquire about the accepted forms of payment, such as credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, or alternative payment methods. This will help you determine how to make payments securely and conveniently.
• Is there a cancellation or refund policy? Understand the agency’s cancellation and refund policy in case you need to make changes to your travel plans. Ask about any fees or restrictions associated with cancellations or modifications.
• Are there any discounts, promotions, or package deals available? Inquire if the travel agency offers any discounts, special promotions, or package deals that could help reduce the overall cost of your trip or enhance your travel experience.
• Can you provide a breakdown of the costs for each component of the trip? Request a detailed breakdown of costs for each aspect of your trip, such as flights, accommodation, transportation, and activities. This will allow you to understand how the costs are allocated and make adjustments if needed.
• Do you offer travel insurance, and what are the associated costs? If travel insurance is available through the agency, inquire about the cost of the insurance and any specific coverage options provided.

By asking these questions about costs and payment, you’ll have a clear understanding of the financial aspects of your trip and can plan your budget accordingly. Being aware of any potential fees, payment requirements, or refund policies will help you avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth payment process. In the next sections, we’ll delve into questions about itineraries, activities, safety, cancellations, and more.

Questions about Itineraries and Activities

Creating a well-planned itinerary and incorporating exciting activities can make your trip truly unforgettable. When working with a travel agency, it’s important to ask the following questions about itineraries and activities:

• Can you provide sample itineraries for my desired destination? Ask the travel agency to provide sample itineraries that align with your travel preferences, whether it’s a leisurely schedule or a packed day of activities.
• Can the itinerary be customized to my specific needs and preferences? Inquire if the travel agency can tailor the itinerary to accommodate any specific requests or preferences you may have, such as extending the stay in a particular location or including specific activities.
• What activities and attractions are recommended in my chosen destination? Ask for recommendations on popular activities, attractions, and local experiences that should be included in your itinerary. This will ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see sights or unique experiences.
• Are there any upcoming festivals or events during my travel dates? If there are any festivals or events happening during your visit, inquire about including them in your itinerary. Attending local celebrations can greatly enhance your cultural experience.
• Can you assist with booking activities and tickets? If there are specific activities, tours, or attractions you’d like to include in your itinerary, ask if the agency can assist with booking them on your behalf. This can save you time and ensure availability.
• What is the level of physical activity involved in the suggested activities? Inquire about the physical demands of the activities to ensure they align with your fitness level and any mobility limitations you may have.
• Are there age restrictions or suitability guidelines for certain activities? If you’re traveling with children or older adults, ask if there are any age restrictions or suitability guidelines for the suggested activities to ensure everyone can participate comfortably.
• Do you provide information or recommendations for dining options? Inquire if the travel agency provides suggestions or recommendations for local dining options, including restaurants or food markets that are known for their delicious cuisine.

By asking these questions about itineraries and activities, you’ll be able to create a well-rounded and enjoyable travel experience that includes the best attractions and activities your destination has to offer. The agency can help you curate an itinerary that caters to your interests, ensuring that you make the most of your trip. In the following sections, we’ll explore questions about safety, cancellations, refunds, and more.

Questions about Safety and Security

Ensuring your safety and security during your travels is of utmost importance. When working with a travel agency, be sure to ask the following questions to address any concerns and maintain a sense of security:

• What safety measures do you have in place? Inquire about the travel agency’s safety protocols and measures to ensure a secure travel experience. Ask about their partnerships with trusted service providers, emergency contact information, and any safety training their staff may have undergone.
• Do you have any recommendations for staying safe while traveling? Ask the agency for tips and recommendations on staying safe, such as avoiding certain areas, taking precautions against pickpocketing, or navigating unfamiliar transportation systems safely.
• Are there any travel advisories or warnings for my chosen destination? Inquire about any travel advisories or warnings issued by local authorities or international organizations for the destination you plan to visit. This information will help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with your travel plans.
• What is your procedure for handling emergencies during the trip? Knowing the travel agency’s emergency response procedure can provide reassurance in case of unforeseen circumstances. Inquire about their 24/7 availability and their ability to assist with emergency situations or provide guidance in challenging situations.
• Do you offer travel insurance that includes emergency medical assistance? Inquire if the travel agency offers travel insurance that includes emergency medical assistance, ensuring that you have access to medical support and evacuation services if needed.
• Do you provide information on local laws, customs, and cultural sensitivities? Understanding the local laws and cultural norms of your destination is important for staying safe and respectful. Inquire if the travel agency provides information on local laws, customs, and any cultural sensitivities you should be aware of.
• What is your policy regarding sharing traveler information? Ask about the agency’s policy regarding the sharing of your personal information. It’s important to ensure that your privacy is protected and that your information is not shared without your consent.
• Can you provide contact information for local embassies or consulates? Inquire if the travel agency can provide contact information for the nearest embassy or consulate in case of emergency or if you require assistance during your travels.

By asking these questions about safety and security, you can have confidence that the travel agency prioritizes your well-being and has measures in place to ensure a safe and secure travel experience. Being informed about safety protocols and having access to support services will give you peace of mind as you embark on your journey. Next, we’ll explore questions about cancellations, refunds, and policies.

Questions about Cancellations and Refunds

While we hope that your travel plans proceed smoothly, unexpected circumstances may occur that require cancellations or changes to your itinerary. To understand the travel agency’s policies regarding cancellations and refunds, consider asking the following questions:

• What is your cancellation policy? Inquire about the agency’s cancellation policy to understand any fees or penalties associated with canceling or modifying your trip. Clarify the timeframe within which cancellations can be made without incurring additional charges.
• What is the refund process if I need to cancel? Understand the agency’s refund process in case of cancellations. Inquire about the timeline for receiving the refund and any administrative or processing fees that may be deducted.
• Do you offer any cancellation protection or trip cancellation insurance? Inquire if the agency offers any additional protection options, such as trip cancellation insurance, which can provide coverage for non-refundable expenses in case you need to cancel due to covered reasons.
• What are the refund policies of the airlines, accommodations, or activity providers? Ask about the individual refund policies of the airlines, accommodations, or activity providers included in your itinerary. Understanding their specific policies will help you determine if there are any limitations or restrictions on refunds.
• What happens if there are changes to my itinerary or if flights are canceled? Inquire about the agency’s procedures for handling changes to your itinerary or if flights are canceled. Ask if they offer assistance in rebooking flights or making alternative arrangements.
• What happens if there are travel advisories or unforeseen events that affect my trip? Inquire about the agency’s policies and procedures in the event of travel advisories or unexpected events that may disrupt your travel plans. Ask if they provide refunds or offer alternative arrangements in such situations.
• Is travel insurance recommended to protect against cancellations and unforeseen events? Inquire if the agency recommends purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected cancellations or disruptions. They may be able to provide information on available coverage options and their benefits.
• Can you assist with making changes or cancellations to booked activities or accommodations? Ask the agency if they can assist with making changes or cancellations to any activities or accommodations booked through them. Having their support can make the process smoother and more efficient.

By asking these questions about cancellations and refunds, you can have a clear understanding of the agency’s policies and procedures. This will help you make informed decisions and be prepared in case you need to make changes to your travel plans. Next, we’ll summarize the key points covered in this article.

Asking the right questions when working with a travel agency is crucial for a successful and enjoyable travel experience. By gathering pertinent information, seeking recommendations, and understanding policies, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your trip aligns with your preferences and expectations. From general inquiries to specific questions about destinations, accommodation, transportation, travel insurance, costs, itineraries, safety, cancellations, and refunds, each category provides valuable insights that will contribute to a seamless and memorable journey.

Remember, the purpose of asking questions is to gather information and establish a level of trust with the travel agency. By posing these questions, you can assess their expertise, professionalism, and ability to meet your travel needs. Additionally, the information gained will enable you to plan your trip more effectively, mitigate potential risks, and make the most of your chosen destination.

Ultimately, the goal is to work collaboratively with the travel agency to craft a personalized and tailored travel experience that fulfills your desires and creates lasting memories. So don’t hesitate to ask questions, voice your preferences, and provide any necessary information to ensure that your trip becomes everything you hoped for and more.

In conclusion, by asking the right questions throughout the planning process, you empower yourself to make informed decisions, enhance your travel experience, and entrust your journey to a reputable and reliable travel agency. Happy travels!

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MakeMyTrip Goes Global: Expands Reach from 3 Countries to 150

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 8th, 2024 at 9:13 AM EDT

Having ticked the regulatory compliance boxes, MakeMyTrip is now ready to make its big international debut, with the spotlight shining on the Indian diaspora.

Peden Doma Bhutia

Indian online travel agency MakeMyTrip made a push Monday to go global: It has extended its services to over 150 countries, including the UK, Germany, Japan, Italy, and France.

Until now, it has operated primarily in India, the U.S., and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This expansion comes after MakeMyTrip’s compliance with key international standards and regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

The primary motivation behind this move is to ensure that travelers, regardless of their geographical location, can use the platform’s offerings. Travelers can now seamlessly book flights, hotels, and holiday packages for themselves and their families across the globe through MakeMyTrip, the company told Skift.

“Before this, our existing users could reach us while traveling abroad for their trip for any existing booking,” MakeMyTrip said in a statement to Skift. “However, travelers from Europe and the UK faced limitations when attempting to make fresh bookings on the platform. With the platform now achieving GDPR compliance, these constraints have been eliminated.”

Virendra Jain, co-founder and CEO of Videc, a travel research firm, said MakeMyTrip’s global strategy isn’t surprising.

“I think it’s coming in now because of all the compliances that were required,” Jain said.

In its India Travel Market Sizing report released last year, Videc noted that MakeMyTrip Group was the largest online travel agency in the country with 54% share of total gross booking value in online travel.

The Indian Diaspora

“Our global accessibility will help us reach the vast Indian diaspora. Importantly, this expansion will enable us to cater to a broader audience, fostering increased inbound travel to India,” said Rajesh Magow, co-founder and group CEO of MakeMyTrip.

China’s leading online travel agency, Trip.com, has used a similar strategy.

Jain emphasized the significance of diaspora communities in driving travel and tourism markets, citing India, China, and to a lesser extent, the Philippines, as major opportunities.

He noted that MakeMyTrip’s extensive coverage of Indian destinations and its diverse range of accommodations position the company well to meet the inbound demand for India, including travelers seeking spiritual and wellness experiences.

Jain noted this latest move by MakeMyTrip aligns with the online travel agency’s track record of successfully replicating its India-focused strategy in other emerging markets, notably in the UAE.

“MakeMyTrip grew exponentially in the UAE banking upon the diaspora, but has now localized its offerings for the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) population. The company is now aiming for a similar success in the Saudi market, anticipating significant growth in both domestic inbound and outbound travel. I wouldn’t be surprised if it wants to replicate this model to other global emerging markets,” he added.

As MakeMyTrip expands, it will need to prioritize customer service. “While traveling to any international destination, one’s priority is security of reservation and customer service,” one analyst told Skift. “The trust factor will play an important role for MakeMyTrip in the competitive online travel space.”

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Photo credit: MakeMyTrip Group CEO Skift

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NASA Picks 3 Companies to Help Astronauts Drive Around the Moon

The agency’s future moon buggies will reach speeds of 9.3 miles per hour and will be capable of self-driving.

By Kenneth Chang

NASA will be renting some cool wheels to drive around the moon.

Space agency officials announced on Wednesday that they have hired three companies to come up with preliminary designs for vehicles to take NASA astronauts around the lunar south polar region in the coming years. After the astronauts return to Earth, these vehicles would be able to self-drive around as robotic explorers, similar to NASA’s rovers on Mars.

The self-driving capability would also allow the vehicle to meet the next astronaut mission at a different location.

“Where it will go, there are no roads,” Jacob Bleacher, the chief exploration scientist at NASA, said at a news conference on Wednesday. “Its mobility will fundamentally change our view of the moon.”

The companies are Intuitive Machines of Houston, which in February successfully landed a robotic spacecraft on the moon ; Lunar Outpost of Golden, Colo.; and Venturi Astrolab of Hawthorne, Calif. Only one of the three will actually build a vehicle for NASA and send it to the moon.

NASA had asked for proposals of what it called the lunar terrain vehicle, or L.T.V., that could drive at speeds up to 9.3 miles per hour, travel a dozen miles on a single charge and allow astronauts to drive around for eight hours.

The agency will work with the three companies for a year to further develop their designs. Then NASA will choose one of them for the demonstration phase.

The L.T.V. will not be ready in time for the astronauts of Artemis III, the first landing in NASA’s return-to-the-moon program , which is currently scheduled for 2026 .

The plan is for the L.T.V. to be on the lunar surface ahead of Artemis V, the third astronaut landing that is expected in 2030, said Lara Kearney, manager of the extravehicular activity and human surface mobility program at the NASA Johnson Space Center.

“If they can get there earlier, we’ll take it earlier,” Ms. Kearney said.

The L.T.V. contract will be worth up to $4.6 billion over the next 15 years — five years of development and then a decade of operations on the moon, most of it going to the winner of this competition. But Ms. Kearney said the contracts allow NASA to later finance the development of additional rovers, or allow other companies to compete in the future.

The contract follows NASA’s recent strategy of purchasing services rather than hardware.

In the past, NASA paid aerospace companies to build vehicles that it then owned and operated. That included the Saturn V rocket, the space shuttles and the lunar roving vehicles — popularly known as moon buggies — that astronauts drove on the moon during the last three Apollo missions in 1971 and 1972.

The new approach has proved successful and less expensive for the transportation of cargo and astronauts to the International Space Station. NASA now pays companies, notably Elon Musk’s SpaceX, fixed fees for those services, more akin to plane tickets or FedEx shipments.

For the company chosen to build the L.T.V., the vehicle will remain its property, and that company will be able to rent it to other customers when it is not needed by NASA.

“It’s commercially available for us as a commercial business to sell capacity on that rover,” said Steve Altemus, the chief executive of Intuitive Machines, “and do that for international partners and for other commercial companies and space agencies around the world.”

The competition created alliances between small startups and larger, more established aerospace companies, as well as car companies. The Intuitive Machines team includes Boeing, Northrop Grumman and Michelin, the tire maker. Lunar Outpost added to its team Lockheed Martin, Goodyear and General Motors, which had helped design the Apollo moon buggies.

Astrolab is working with Axiom Space of Houston, which has sent private astronauts to the space station and is building a commercial module to the International Space Station. Astrolab announced last year that it had signed an agreement to send one of its rovers to the moon on a SpaceX Starship rocket as early as 2026. That mission is independent of whether it is selected by NASA, a company spokesman said.

While Lunar Outpost is competing with Intuitive Machines on this contract, it plans to work with the company separately, sending smaller robotic rovers to the moon on the company’s lunar landers.

Kenneth Chang , a science reporter at The Times, covers NASA and the solar system, and research closer to Earth. More about Kenneth Chang

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

A new set of computer simulations, which take into account the effects of stars moving past our solar system, has effectively made it harder to predict Earth’s future and reconstruct its past.

Dante Lauretta, the planetary scientist who led the OSIRIS-REx mission to retrieve a handful of space dust , discusses his next final frontier.

A nova named T Coronae Borealis lit up the night about 80 years ago. Astronomers say it’s expected to put on another show  in the coming months.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

Northeast Severe Weather April 2024

Affected Airports - City , State Association:

• Albany Intl, NY  (ALB)
• Allentown Bethlehem, PA  (ABE)
• Baltimore Washington, MD  (BWI)
• Bangor, ME  (BGR)
• Boston, MA  (BOS)
• Buffalo, NY (BUF)
• Burlington, VT  (BTV)
• Harrisburg Intl, PA  (MDT)
• Hartford Springfield, CT  (BDL)
• Manchester, NH   (MHT)
• Montreal, Canada (YUL)
• New York JFK, NY  (JFK)
• New York LGA, NY  (LGA)
• Newark, NJ  (EWR)
• Philadelphia, PA  (PHL)
• Portland, ME    (PWM)
• Providence, RI   (PVD)
• Rochester, NY   (ROC)
• Salisbury, MD (SBY)
• Scranton Wilkes-Barre, PA  (AVP)
• State College, PA  (SCE)
• Syracuse, NY  (SYR)
• Washington Dulles, DC  (IAD)
• Washington Reagan, DC  (DCA)
• Watertown, NY  (ART)
• Westchester County, NY   (HPN)
• Worcester, MA (ORH)

For complete details View

issued: April 2, 2024

American Airlines has implemented a special exception policy to our travel partners that is now available for our mutual customers due to expected o perational disruptions, including delays and cancellations due to inclement weather

Our Travel Notice exception policies on American are also available when ticketed to/from/through on our Joint Business partners: This applies to both prime and codeshare flights as shown below:

Inventory Requirements

Lowest Inventory, Same Cabin

If original inventory is not available rebook lowest inventory available in the same ticketed cabin. As a reminder, customers that do not hold a Basic Economy fare should never be booked into B inventory.

Basic Economy -

• Must be booked in B inventory only. If B inventory is not available, then an alternate flight must be selected. Advance Purchase and Ticket Change restrictions are waived.

Instant Upsell -

Refer to Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines for rebooking guidelines and Endorsement Box requirement when the customer purchased Instant Upsell (IU) directly with American on aa.com . IU PNRs contain the following SSRs:

• OTHS AGENCY RETAINS CONTROL OF TKT FOR REISSUES
• OTHS INSTANT UPSELL ANCILLARY EMD ISSUED 001xxxxxxxxxx

Refer to Exceptions to Fare Rules .

Note: If customers are unable to rebook or reissue their ticket within the given timeline, they can cancel their reservation and use the value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket; all rules and restrictions apply. Travel must commence no later than one year from the date of original issuance.

Endorsement Box Requirements

• Refer to individual Travel Notice for Event Name
• Ticket Reissue required. This is the only required verbiage and supersedes all other information.

Instant Upsell (IU) tickets must use waiver code: TNADV/IU when rebooking in the Instant Upsell Inventory IU PNRs contain the following SSRs:

Refer to Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines for Endorsement Box requirement when the customer purchased Instant Upsell (IU) directly with American on aa.com .

Changes to Origin/Destination - Not Allowed

• Waive Change Fee
• Ticket reissue for original ticketed fare
• 300 Mile Radius is always allowed, unless otherwise stated in the notice
• Changes to origin/destination are not permitted for the travel notice
• Any changes made to origin/destination all fare rules apply

300-Mile Radius Only - Allowed

• Within same country
• For booking inventory, view Inventory Requirements

Basic Economy Short-haul fares

book in B inventory only.If B inventory is not available, then an alternate flight must be selected.

Changes to Connection City

Changes to Co-Terminal

Changes to Co-terminal and MAC airports on AA Prime and AA*/Codeshare flights are allowed

• Co-terminal & MAC Airports are considered the same routing.  

Reissue Policy Information

American Airlines will waive change fees and travel agents may rebook and reissue tickets provided the below guidelines are met and applied:

• Ticket issued on the following ticket stock: AA 001, AY 105, BA 125, El053, IB 075, JL 131, QF 081
• Applies to AA*/ one world flights
• Travel has not commenced on the affected flight segment and the ticket has not been reissued by American Airlines
• The first departure flight is more than 2 hours away
• Affected coupons are in OK status
• Travel reissuance only in accordance to dates identified in the applicable Travel Notice Exception Advisory
• More than one change allowed without an additional collection, including penalty or change fee within the Travel Notice dates
• Original issuing agency responsible for ticket reissue
• Ticket Revalidation not permitted
• The return travel must be booked in the original class of service (inventory)
• Refer to Extend Travel Rebooking after the Travel Event
• Basic Economy must be rebooked in the appropriate Basic Economy inventory
• Please ensure the above procedures are accurately followed to prevent debit memo issuance

Rebooking - Exception to Fare Rules

Exception to Fare Rules: All fare rules apply with the exception of the following:

• Advance Purchase requirement waived
• Minimum/Maximum Stay requirement waived
• Change Fee waived
• When changes to the outbound travel occur, the unaffected return date may be changed to protect the original length of the trip. The return travel must be booked in the original class of service (inventory).

SalesLink Request

• Rebook flights in compliance with Travel Notice Exception Policy
• Log-in to SalesLink at www.saleslink.aa.com
• Request Type: select 'Service'
• Input AA PNR
• Waiver Type: select 'Travel Notice'
• Travel Notice: select applicable Travel Notice event name
• Select 'Next' - and complete request
• Verify: SalesLink approval remarks in PNR
• New Ticket Endorsement Box: Enter event name only
• Ticket Reissue required

Endorsement Box requirement: 02APR24 or the exchange will be subject to a debit memo

Extend Travel Rebooking Guidelines

If customers are unable to rebook within the New Travel Dates, may reschedule their reservation to/from the same city or alternate cities and reissue their ticket with the below guidelines:

• Cancel their itinerary and apply the value of the original ticket towards the purchase of a new ticket for travel commencing within 1 year from the date of original issuance
• Change fee only is waived as long as the original ticket is reissued within ticket validity and the impact dates are in accordance with those identified in the Travel Notice
• Basic Economy fares may only be used towards the purchase of other Basic Economy fares.
• Residual MCO's are not allowed when using the TNADVE waiver code for reissue.
• Extend Travel Rebooking does not apply to tickets in conjunction with Instant Upsell (IU)

Refund Policy Information

When the flight is cancelled or the length of delay is 91+ minutes , travel agents may refund ticket(s) through normal GDS/ARC/BSP processing. Refer to our Schedule Irregularity policy for delays 90 minutes or less.

• Refund To Original Form Of Payment - All penalties/fees waived
• Non-Refundable Fare
• Refundable Fare with cancellation Fee
• Basic Economy Fare
• Bulk/Opaque Fare

Note: If the ticket has been exchanged by American as an INVOL submit the refund request directly with American. Refer to American Airlines Refunds .

When the flight is not cancelled or the length of delay is 90 minutes or less , a refund does not apply:

• If customer elects to cancel their reservation and use the value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket outside the Travel Notice dates; may use Extend Travel Rebooking or may hold ticket for future travel; all rules and restrictions apply.
• Travel must commence no later than one year from the date of original issuance.

En route/Diversion

• Connecting customers' en route to one of the above-listed destinations or whose flights are diverted will have the option to return to their original departure city and rebook travel to alternate future dates.
• Customers should work directly with the airport to obtain a boarding pass for return travel to their original departure city. If the customer wishes to rebook travel to alternate future dates, please contact American Airlines Reservations for assistance. Alternatively, they may receive a refund if re-accommodation options are unacceptable.
• If a ticket has already been reissued by American Airlines or the ticket is partially used, travel agents must submit the refund request online at https://prefunds.aa.com/refunds/

American Airlines will continue to monitor this Travel Notice Exception Advisory and adjust this policy if needed. Changes will be posted on AA.com and www.saleslink.aa.com reference. Please check these sources frequently for the most up to date information.

• www.saleslink.aa.com Reference: Select Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines
• Visit www.saleslink.aa.com and navigate to AA News and Offers to view current travel notices.
• Contact your Sales Support Center 800-621-8489 or American Airlines Reservations 800-433-7300 (U.S. and Canada) or for Reservations outside the U.S. and Canada, please see our Worldwide Reservations Numbers American Airlines encourages all customers to check flight and gate status prior to leaving for the airport. For complete travel information, visit AA.com .
• Group reservations must be changed by AA Group & Meeting Travel
• Information contained on this web site is subject to change at any time without notice. American Airlines shall not be liable for any consequences resulting from your reliance on the information.