tour meaning travel

Tour vs. Travel

What's the difference.

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

Further Detail

Introduction.

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

1. Planning and Organization

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

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

2. Flexibility and Freedom

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

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

3. Social Interaction

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

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

4. Cost and Budget

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

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

5. Safety and Security

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

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

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

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

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English Grammar

TRAVEL - TRIP - JOURNEY - TOUR - VOYAGE

Meaning and use of the words 'trip', 'travel', 'journey', 'tour', and 'voyage'..

The explanation below should help clarify the meaning and use of vocabulary related to travel.

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

Annisa Maher

Posted on 13 august 2020.

For First Time Solo Travellers

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

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

Dispelling Myths About Tours

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

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

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

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

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

The Value of a Guide

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

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

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

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

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

Meet Like Minded People

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid Logistical Nightmares

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So How Do I Find The Right Tour For Me?

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

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

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

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

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• a traveling around from place to place.

Synonyms: expedition , trip

The visiting prime minister was given a tour of the chemical plant.

to go on tour; a European concert tour.

• a period of duty at one place or in one job.

verb (used without object)

Synonyms: visit

• to travel from town to town fulfilling engagements.

verb (used with object)

• to send or take (a theatrical company, its production, etc.) from town to town.

He toured us through the chateaus of the Loire Valley.

• an extended journey, usually taken for pleasure, visiting places of interest along the route
• military a period of service, esp in one place of duty
• a short trip, as for inspection

a concert tour

• an overseas trip made by a cricket or rugby team, etc, to play in several places
• to make a tour of (a place)
• to perform (a show) or promote (a product) in several different places

Other Words From

• mini·tour noun
• un·toured adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tour 1

Example Sentences

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site hosts a walking tour of Douglass’ Anacostia today at noon.

Noah Latham, a private based at Fort Drum, did a tour of Iraq as a drone operator, according to an Army spokesperson.

Hughes was scheduled to join city officials on a tour of the building two weeks later.

Plus, see how the Panda Cams are operated, take a virtual tour of the panda house and get the answers to some of your most-asked questions.

At that time, Matt Rihm and Hans Smith of Armada Skis were driving out for a ski tour in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains.

Stanley Richards, Senior Vice President of the Fortune Society, gave a tour along with a few residents.

Before I go out on tour, I ask for prayer and to help my family.

They finished out the tour without incident, while newspapers across the country picked up the story.

TLC promptly pulled the plug on the hit series and Shannon embarked on a press tour denying the claims.

I was a part of this tour, debating Meyer in Richmond, Virginia in April.

The magazines sketch us a lively article, the newspapers vignette us, step by step, a royal tour.

But the traveller took a wide tour; and did not bring the letter to its destination until two months after its date.

Your most intimate friend arrived in Paris, and you choose the next day to make a little tour!

I did not anticipate a tour of pleasure through Ireland, but the reality is more painful than I anticipated.

He explained quietly that he did not belong here, but was making a tour of the parishes of Wurttemberg and Baden.

Related Words

Tour vs. Travel: What's the Difference?

Key Differences

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Travel vs. Tour — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Travel and Tour

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Definition of 'tour'

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Tour in american english, tour in the oil and gas industry, examples of 'tour' in a sentence tour, cobuild collocations tour, trends of tour.

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Understanding the Distinction: Travel, Trip, and Journey Explained

Zackary Hooper

Ever find yourself scratching your head over when to use ‘travel’, ‘trip’, or ‘journey’? Me too. In fact, these terms are commonly misused by even the most well-traveled folks among us.

Table of Contents

As an English language aficionado and travel enthusiast, I dove deep into linguistic resources to clear up this confusion once and for all. This blog will guide you through the nuances of these three words , helping you navigate your way to flawless English usage in any travel context .

Ready for departure?

Key Takeaways

• Travel refers to going to a place, especially far away.
• Trip involves traveling from one place to another, usually for a short period of time.
• Journey implies traveling from one place to another without necessarily returning.
• Proper usage of these terms is essential in effectively conveying our experiences.

Definition and Differences between Travel, Trip, and Journey

Travel is a verb that means going to a place, especially far away, while trip refers to the process of traveling from one place to another, usually for a short time. Journey, on the other hand, implies traveling from one place to another without necessarily returning.

Travel as a verb meaning to go to a place, especially far away

Travel, as a verb, emphasizes the act of moving from one location to another. This movement often involves significant distance between the two points. For instance, you might say you are traveling to Europe or Asia from America – places that are undoubtedly quite far from each other.

Notably, travel doesn’t always require a return trip; it merely notes the action of going somewhere far . Even voyages into space can be considered travel! So next time you utter “I love to travel,” note that this phrase speaks volumes about your passion for exploring distant destinations and embracing new experiences on a broader geographic scale .

Trip as the process of traveling from one place to another, usually for a short time

When we talk about a trip, we’re referring to the act of traveling from one place to another. It’s usually for a short period of time and involves moving between different locations .

Think of it as going on a vacation or taking a quick getaway. A trip can be as short as a day or extend over several days, but it generally doesn’t involve staying in one place for an extended period.

So whether you’re heading out on a road trip with friends or catching a flight to explore new cities, remember that a trip is all about the process of getting from point A to point B , enjoying the journey along the way.

Journey as traveling from one place to another, not necessarily returning

A journey is all about the experience of traveling from one place to another, without the expectation of returning . It can be a long and exciting adventure, with multiple destinations along the way.

Unlike a trip or travel, which often involves going somewhere and then coming back, a journey implies forward movement and exploration . It’s like embarking on a voyage of discovery, where you’re eager to see what lies ahead and open to new experiences.

Whether it’s backpacking through Europe or sailing around the world, a journey offers endless possibilities for exploration and self-discovery .

Common Uses and Examples of Travel, Trip, and Journey

– Travel: “I love traveling to different countries , experiencing new cultures and exploring exotic destinations.

– Trip: “We took a weekend trip to the beach, enjoying sun-kissed days and relaxing by the seaside.”

– Journey: “His journey across the desert was filled with challenges and self-discovery as he embarked on a soul-searching adventure.”

Travel: “I love to travel to different countries.”

I absolutely adore exploring different countries . Experiencing new cultures, trying unique cuisines , and immersing myself in unfamiliar landscapes is what makes travel so thrilling for me.

Whether it’s wandering through ancient ruins in Greece or hiking through the vibrant jungles of Costa Rica, I find immense joy in venturing beyond my comfort zone and discovering all that the world has to offer.

Travel opens my eyes to different perspectives and allows me to create lasting memories that I cherish forever.

Trip: “We went on a business trip to New York.”

Last week, I had the opportunity to go on a business trip to New York . It was an exciting experience that allowed me to explore the bustling city and meet with important clients . During the trip, we visited various companies , attended conferences , and even had some time to enjoy the sights and sounds of New York.

Being able to immerse myself in a different environment for a short period of time was both refreshing and educational. Overall, it was a successful trip that helped us strengthen our professional relationships and achieve our business goals.

Journey: “His journey around the world took him three years.”

I embarked on a three-year journey around the world, exploring new cultures and experiencing incredible adventures along the way. From bustling cities to remote villages, my journey allowed me to immerse myself in different landscapes and meet fascinating people from all walks of life.

It was a transformative experience that broadened my horizons and shaped my perspective on the world.

Clarifying Misuses of Travel, Trip, and Journey

Many people mistakenly use the term “travel” for short distances, but it should be reserved for going to faraway places. To understand the proper usage of these words, read on!

Incorrect uses of travel: “He traveled to the grocery store.”

Using the word “travel” to describe a short trip to the grocery store is incorrect. Travel usually refers to going to a distant place, especially far away. So, it’s important to use this term appropriately and not for everyday local trips like grocery stores.

Proper uses of the terms: “I traveled to Europe.”

I traveled to Europe for my summer vacation. It was an exciting travel experience filled with new cultures, delicious food, and breathtaking sights. The proper use of the term “travel” in this context refers to going somewhere far away , especially to a different country or continent .

In this case, I embarked on an adventure from my home country to Europe, immersing myself in each destination’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Traveling to Europe broadened my horizons and created memories that will last a lifetime.

Understanding the Nuances between Travel, Trip, and Journey

Travel, trip, and journey may seem similar, but they each have their own nuances. Read on to delve deeper into the distinctions between these terms and how to use them correctly in your everyday conversations.

Travel focuses on the action of going to a distant place.

Travel allows us to embark on exciting journeys to faraway destinations. It is the act of physically moving from one place to another , often to distant locations . Whether it’s exploring a new country , immersing ourselves in different cultures , or experiencing thrilling adventures , travel is all about the exhilarating action of venturing beyond our comfort zones .

So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey filled with unforgettable experiences!

Trip emphasizes the process of traveling and staying in a place.

A trip is all about the journey itself and the experience of being in a specific place . It focuses on the process of traveling from one location to another, while also emphasizing the time spent staying in that particular place.

Whether you’re taking a short weekend trip to a nearby city or embarking on a week-long vacation, a trip is about immersing yourself in new surroundings and enjoying everything that destination has to offer.

Journey implies a longer and more significant travel experience.

When embarking on a journey, you can expect a more extensive and meaningful travel experience . Unlike a simple trip or travel, a journey often involves exploring multiple destinations or pursuing a specific purpose .

It encompasses the idea of venturing into the unknown and embracing new challenges along the way. Whether it’s an epic road trip across several countries or a spiritual pilgrimage to sacred sites, a journey offers an opportunity for personal growth and transformation .

It allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures , navigate unfamiliar terrain, and create lasting memories. So if you’re seeking an adventure that goes beyond mere transportation from point A to point B, set out on a journey that will take you further and leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Conclusion and Importance of Using the Correct Terms

Understanding the distinctions between travel , trip, and journey is crucial in accurately conveying our experiences . By using these terms correctly, we can communicate more effectively and avoid confusion .

So whether we’re embarking on a short trip or a life-changing journey , let’s remember to use the right words to describe our adventures ! Keep exploring and keep traveling!

1. What is the difference between travel, trip, and journey?

Travel refers to the act of going from one place to another, while a trip is a specific instance of traveling for a particular purpose or destination. A journey, on the other hand, implies a longer and more meaningful experience that may involve personal growth or transformation.

2. Can you give examples of each term – travel, trip, and journey?

Sure! Travel can include activities like flying to a different country or taking a road trip across states. A trip could be going on vacation to Disneyland or visiting family over the holidays. And a journey might involve backpacking through Europe for several months or embarking on a spiritual retreat.

3. Is there any overlap between these terms?

Yes, there can be some overlap between these terms depending on context. For example, someone’s “trip” may also be considered their “journey” if it involves self-discovery or exploration. Similarly, long-term travel experiences may encompass both the notions of “travel” and “journey.”

4. How does understanding the distinction between these terms help in communication?

Understanding the distinction between travel, trip, and journey helps in effective communication as it allows us to accurately describe our experiences and intentions when discussing our travels with others. It provides clarity and avoids confusion by using appropriate terminology when sharing stories or making plans involving different types of travel experiences.

About the author

I’ve been fortunate to visit over fifty countries, each journey leaving a unique footprint on my life’s map. From bustling cities to serene nature trails, I’ve immersed myself in different cultures and experiences, constantly broadening my understanding of the world. On this site, I share my travel stories, tips, and insights, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own journeys. Join me as we uncover the beauty of our planet, one adventure at a time. Please reach out here if you need to get in touch.

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Definition of travel

 (Entry 1 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of travel  (Entry 2 of 2)

• peregrinate
• peregrination

Examples of travel in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'travel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English travailen, travelen to torment, labor, strive, journey, from Anglo-French travailler

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing travel

• pre - travel
• see / travel the world
• travel agency
• travel agent
• travel light
• travel sickness
• travel trailer

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Dictionary Entries Near travel

Cite this entry.

“Travel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/travel. Accessed 17 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of travel.

Kids Definition of travel  (Entry 2 of 2)

Middle English travailen "torment, labor, strive, journey," from early French travailler "torment, labor," from an unrecorded Latin verb tripaliare "to torture," from Latin tripalium "an instrument of torture," literally "three stakes," derived from tri- "three" and palus "stake, pale" — related to pale entry 3 , travail

More from Merriam-Webster on travel

Nglish: Translation of travel for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of travel for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about travel

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What is a tour operator and how does it work?

The tour operator is an integral component of tourism , yet many people are unclear about what a tour operator actually is or what they do.

In this article I will explain what a tour operator is and why tour operators are important. I will also talk about what the difference between a tour operator and a travel agent is, as well as the different types of tour operators.

What is a tour operator?

Definitions of tour operator, importance of tour operators, the difference between a tour operator and a travel agent, what does a tour operator do, products and services sold by tour operators, inbound tour operators, outbound tour operators, domestic tour operators, ground tour operators, the association of independent tour operators, the tour operator: to conclude.

Tour operators are inextricably linked to the package holiday model. The tour operator is the person or organisation who creates the package. A travel agency is then used to sell the package holiday.

In the chain of distribution , the tour operator is represented by the term ‘wholesaler’. This is because the tour operator is responsible for purchasing products of services in bulk and then redistributing them as a packaged product to consumers.

To put it simply, a tour operator is the person or organisation who takes the individual elements of a holiday (e.g. transfer, hotel, transport) and packages these together.

The types of package vary. Most commonly, tour operators are associated with mass tourism and the traditional package holiday market. However, tour operators do also play an important role in the production of niche tourism products and services too.

If you’re looking for a formal definition of a tour operator with a reputable source, you may want to reference Polyther, who in 1993, defined the tour operator as;

‘[an organisation or person] who has the responsibility of putting the tour ingredients together, marketing it, making reservations and handling actual operation’.

Similarly, Holloway (1992) states that;

tour operations undertake a distinct function in the tourism industry, they purchase separate e lements of tourism products/services and combine them into a package tour which they sell directly or indirectly to the tourists .

The Organisation for Economic and Cultural Development (OECD) define a tour operator as follows;

‘Tour operators are businesses that combine two or more travel services (e.g., transport, accommodation, meals, entertainment, sightseeing) and sell them through travel agencies or directly to final consumers as a single product (called a package tour) for a global price. The components of a package tour might be pre-established or can result from an “a la carte” procedure, in which the visitor decides the combination of services he/she wishes to acquire.’

Tour operators are an important part of the tourism industry .

Tour operators make the logistics of organising a holiday much easier for the consumer. This makes people more likely to travel, more often.

Tour operators have a lot of power. If they choose to sell holidays in a particular location, for example, then that location will receive many of the associated positive and negative economic impacts of tourism .

Tour operators are often vertically or horizontally integrated with other organisations, such as travel agents and airlines. This allows for easier management and distribution of products.

Tour operators typically build holidays en masse. This means that economies of scale play a key role in driving down prices- the more you produce the cheaper the product becomes! This is obviously beneficial to the consumer and helps travel agents to have a competitive advantage when selling holidays.

Many people are not aware that a travel agent and a tour operator are actually two totally different organisations and they are not aware of the difference between a tour operator and a travel agent.

In fact, it is quite easy to understand this difference!

A tour operator is the organisation which puts the different elements of a holiday together. And the travel agent is the organisation who sells it to the consumer.

Whilst this differentiation is pretty easy to comprehend, it is easy to understand why people get tour operators and travel agents confused. This is largely because many organisations will operate under the same company. For example, TUI has a tour operator and a travel agent (and an airline too). As a result, many people do not realise that in actual fact, there are two separate organisations doing two separate jobs.

Ultimately, a tour operator is responsible for putting the different elements of a holiday together into a commodified package.

To do this, there are a number of different roles and responsibilities that tour operator staff will have. This includes:

• Data analysis- which destinations will sell best, how many holidays should they sell etc
• Assessing suitability of accommodation, transfer and transport options
• Liaising with stakeholders e.g. coach operators, airlines, hoteliers and resort representatives
• Negotiating contracts
• Confirming reservations with airlines/hotels
• Managing and responding to customer feedback
• Undertaking market research
• Production of marketing material
• Providing pricing information
• Handling bookings, invoicing and issuing of tickets
• Working with travel consultants from different travel agencies to put holiday packages together

Tour operators have a number of products and services that they sell, depending on their specific business model, business intentions and target market. A tour operator will typically package together two of more elements to form a packaged product, which is then sold at an inclusive price.

Examples include:

• Package holidays
• Accommodation
• Information on destinations
• Representative service in resorts

Types of tour operator

Tour operators come in all shapes and sizes. Some are large, multinational organisations and other are small, independent business.

Different types of tour operators develop products for different types of tourism . This can include the mass market, niche tourism market, special interest tourism, the luxury market, tailor-made products and dynamic packages .

There are four different types of tour operators, which I will explain below.

• Inbound Tour Operators
• Outbound Tour Operators
• Domestic Tour Operators
• Ground Operators

An inbound tour operator is one who facilitates inbound tourism .

The aim of an inbound tour operator is to bring tourists in to a particular country or countries.

Inbound tour operators will often collaborate with local travel agencies and transport operators to facilitate travel arrangements for their customers.

Inbound tour operator example: A group of German tourists conduct a tour of China, encompassing a visit to Shanghai , Hangzhou and the Yellow Mountains . The tour operator who organises their travel is Chinese-based company China Highlights . This company is based locally in China and they offer local, Chinese tours.

An outbound tour operator is one who facilitates outbound tourism .

The aim of an outbound tour operator is to send tourists out of a particular country or countries.

Outbound tour operators will often collaborate with foreign travel agencies and transport operators to facilitate travel arrangements for their customers.

Outbound tour operator example : A family of four from Liverpool, UK want to book an all-inclusive summer sun holiday in Alicante. They book through TUI , the largest tour operator in Britain, who specialises in outbound travel. They are based in the UK, but they work with foreign partners to facilitate holidays overseas.

A domestic tour operator is one who facilitates domestic tourism .

The aim of a domestic tour operator is to organise travel within a particular country or countries.

Domestic tour operators will often collaborate with domestic travel agencies and transport operators to facilitate travel arrangements for their customers. Domestic tour operators will often also serve the inbound tourism market.

Domestic tour operator example : A group of twenty-something boys from Chicago want to travel to Florida for the spring break holiday. They want to do a tour of the local attractions in the area and have some time to relax on the beach . They organise their travel through the tour company, Trek America . Staff at this company are experts in domestic travel within the USA.

A ground tour operator is an organisation who dopes the ground work as grass roots level.

Many tour operators do not have connections in all places around the world, therefore they build a network of connections to help them run their business.

Essentially, some of the work is passed on to a third party, known as a ground operator. This work may include negotiating local contracts, liaising with local suppliers and providing market data, amongst other things.

This is especially common for small tour operators.

You may also hear ground tour operators referred to as handling operators or handling agents.

Ground tour operator example : A backpacker wants to ‘give something back’ and book a volunteer tourism holiday in Kerala. She wanted to use a known and trusted tour operator to book her trip so she booked it with Intrepid Travel . Intrepid Travel create and sell adventure holidays all over the world, and it is impossible for them to have contacts and every staff in every corner of the globe. Therefore they work with local ground operators, who do the work on the ground. In this instance, the ground organisation is Iris Travel – a tour operator based in Kerela, India.

The Association of Independent Tour Operators , abbreviated as AITO, is a travel industry trade group (like  ABTA  or ATOL) based in Britain. They launched in 1976.

The AITO represents around 120 independent  tour operators  across 200 countries.

These tour operators provide access to a huge range of activities including city breaks, safaris, luxury holidays and much more. The AITO is based in Twickenham, south-west London.

The AITO does a variety of things. Most importantly, you can be reassured that your holiday is well-protected thanks to the Association of Independent Tour Operators.

They assess every member financially as well as by their own business practice code before granting membership; this means that you are guaranteed clear and accurate descriptions of holidays as well as tour standards that are consistently monitored.

Tour operators are an important part of the tourism industry, and with AITO, you have added security when booking your travels through a tour operator. Hopefully after reading this article you are now confident with what a tour operator is, how these organisations work and the different types of tour operators operating the market.

If you liked this article, why not take a look at these too?

• Types of travel agents | Understanding tourism
• What is e-tourism and how is it changing travel?
• 10 jobs in travel and tourism that will be BIG in 2022 and beyond
• What does the World Travel and Tourism Council do?

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What is Educational Travel?

What is Educational Travel? Educational Travel is a carefully planned combination of tours, site visits and hands-on learning opportunities, built around clear learning objectives. An educational tour is more than a vacation. It’s a tool for learning and success with fun and excitement built in. By walking in the footsteps of emperors, seeing the art that inspired a society and speaking a foreign language to communicate, students are engaging themselves and becoming life-long, self-directed learners.

Who are the key players?

Group Leaders – Teachers Who Travel for Free

Group leaders are typically teachers (though they don’t need to be), and as the name suggests they lead their group of travelers overseas. Group leaders choose an educational tour itinerary or work with their international program consultant to customize one. They recruit a group, prepare them for the trip, and while on tour, provide supervision, educational leadership and handle any necessary discipline. Understanding that this is a bit of work, group leaders travel free when they have a group of six or more student participants. Most companies (ACIS included) allow first-time group leaders to travel free with just five participants. Group leaders will also earn World Traveler Rewards points which they can redeem for extra rewards such as attending global conferences (free trips abroad without their students), cash rewards and more.

Assistant Group Leaders – Additional Teachers or Parents who Travel for Free with Every Additional Six Participants

International Program Consultants – Your Planning Partners

Tour Managers – Your On-Tour Guide

The word “guide” barely scratches the surface of all they do. ACIS Tour Managers are comedians, historians, and secret-agents all rolled into one. They have native knowledge of culture (even in the unique case they’re not), and they handle logistics like an engineer. They greet you at the airport and are with you 24/7 during your tour. They educate, inspire, ease your mind, solve your problems and leave a lasting impression on quite a few young minds along the way.

What do Students do on an Educational Journey?

Educational travel is about experiential learning. Students on an educational journey see and enrich their knowledge of places and works of art they’ve learned about in the classroom. Education scholar, Lenore Borzac, defines experiential learning as a “direct encounter with the phenomena being studied rather than merely thinking about the encounter, or only considering the possibility of doing something about it.” At ACIS, experiential learning occurs daily on tour, but is spotlighted with our Cultural Connections, which range from Pétanque Lessons in Paris, a tea ceremony in Shanghai or dancing lessons in Athens. We seek to make the pages of each student’s text book come alive in real life, leaving a lasting impact on students’ desire to learn and explore for the rest of their lives.

Marc Amigone

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Loved the article! Well said! I will definitely share this with my teachers!

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His Deaf Friends Had Bad Travel Experiences, So He Did Something About It

Two decades ago, terry giansanti created the deaf-owned, deaf-led international tour company hands on travel; 350 tours later, he talks about what’s changed and what still needs to..

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Hands On Travel leads tours in 60 countries, including Croatia.

Imagine being a deaf American who has traveled to the Leaning Tower of Pisa only to be told you can’t enter without a hearing person present. Consider how humiliating and patronizing and stressful this could feel. Unfortunately, several deaf and hard of hearing Americans traveling abroad have reported encountering such barriers, borne out of inaccessible environments, and cultural biases about what deaf and hard of hearing people can and can’t do safely.

Terry Giansanti, founder of the deaf-owned tour operator Hands On Travel (formerly called Hands On Italia), is trying to make deaf travel less friction filled. Since 2002, his company has organized more than 350 tours for small groups as well as private trips, led by local deaf guides in more than 60 countries with more than 4,000 deaf customers whose primary language is American Sign Language.

Giansanti was inspired to start Hands On Travel when he was living in Italy more than two decades ago. After graduating from Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. (the world’s only bilingual ASL–English university), he moved to Rome to work at the 2001 Deaflympics. And when fellow deaf American friends complained of negative travel experiences during the games, he had an idea of how to do better.

I spoke to Giansanti in September 2024, while he was leading a group tour of the Balkans—Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Montenegro, and Macedonia—with 15 deaf Americans. It was evening in darkened Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, on his end, and a sunny afternoon in northern Virginia on mine.

Why did you decide to leave behind America for Rome? And where in the U.S. are you from, exactly?

I was born and raised in Maryland and grew up in Greenbelt, mostly. I have Italian roots from my grandfather’s side. While in college, I went backpacking across Europe twice, and it aroused an interest in me to experience living in Europe after graduation. So I took the jump. Expected to stay a couple years, but that turned into 25 years (and counting).

What’s Hands On Travel’s origin story?

During the 2001 Deaflympics in Italy, many of my friends came to visit Rome. As an American living in Rome, I wanted them to enjoy the city and be impressed with what it had to offer. Unfortunately, some mentioned their bad experiences during their time in Rome and when I asked them to explain—they gave reasons that made me reply, “Oh no, you should have done this, not that” and so forth.

It made me realize that there was a lack of accessible information for deaf people at that time and inspired me to set up a business in order to provide that access and knowledge to them in direct communication, given that ASL is my mother language and also the mother language of almost all of our participants.

Can you give an example of a bad experience a friend shared with you?

It was a long time ago but it was mostly about going to the wrong place to eat, staying at the wrong location, missing some important sights, going to the wrong area, that kind of stuff.

Recently a deaf American influencer’s post went viral when she was denied entry into the Leaning Tower of Pisa without a hearing person accompanying her. Has that been your experience? How do you handle such issues?

Deaf people face stereotyping, discrimination, and oppression in many places all over the world, in addition to lack of clarity and communication. It can be stressful and embarrassing.

Since they have paid money to travel, it is our job to act as a sponge in these situations, to remove that unpleasant friction from their shoulders and take it onto our shoulders. That way, they don’t have to experience negative energy while traveling. It still happens because it’s impossible to 100 percent filter out, but our goal is to reduce that percentage down as much as humanly possible.

How would you describe the state of deaf travel today? What is it like to be a deaf traveler in 2024, and how is it different from previous years?

Things have improved a lot since we first started in 2002. Part of it is obviously thanks to technology. In 2002, we didn’t even have smartphones. There is more access to information nowadays so it is somewhat easier for deaf people to travel independently equipped with tools they need to have a successful trip.

Travel involves lots of variables outside of people’s control, so it requires adaptability and thinking outside of the box.

What do you mean by somewhat easier?

It’s not 100 percent easy, never will be. Travel cannot be 100 percent easy for anybody—not only deaf people; that’s just not possible. Travel involves lots of variables outside of people’s control, so it requires adaptability and thinking outside of the box. For deaf people, it’s even harder due to the lack of visual cues or visual communication in many popular tourist destinations.

What would you like to see change to make it easier for deaf people to travel?

America needs to establish a national disability ID card that every disabled person can get in order to “prove” their disability. [ Ed. note: Some countries, such as India , Israel , and Japan , have national disability identification cards. Also, the European Union (EU) is close to adopting a disability card that would apply to all member states within the EU .] Deafness in particular is not a very visual disability. Worldwide, in order to get reduced or free admission to tourist attractions they often request ID card as proof of disability, and that’s something Americans don’t yet have. That would make things a lot easier for deaf people in many places worldwide.

Many deaf people are also starving for more resources to help them plan their travel abroad. Deaf-friendly destinations. Deaf-friendly experiences. Local deaf guides. Deaf social events. Deaf-centered sights.

Many deaf people are also starving for more resources to help them plan their travel abroad. Deaf-friendly destinations. Deaf-friendly experiences. Local deaf guides.

What makes your company unique from other deaf-owned tour operators?

First, I believe that we are the first American deaf-owned and deaf-run tour operator that operates, organizes, designs, and runs our own tours with full communication access, small group sizes, and unique travel experiences.

Now, there are more deaf-owned tour operators in the field, which is a good thing because it ensures that deaf people are empowering each other in the travel industry, which is a huge industry worldwide nowadays.

But we feel that we’ve proven over 22 years in business that we continue to be at the forefront of the deaf-owned tour operator industry due to our accumulated experience, customer service, and unique offerings. And that, with us, people know what they’re getting from their investment into their travel, which is our full effort, energy, and attention to them in small group sizes, which ensures everybody stays involved.

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a criminal act that results in serious damage or injury, especially murder

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How to reserve parking in advance of the Eras Tour in Indianapolis — and how much it costs

Although there are more than 73,000 parking spots in downtown Indianapolis, we suspect there will still be fewer parking spots than Taylor Swift fans when the icon visits for her three-night stop at Lucas Oil Stadium in early November.

Not to worry, however, if you among the fortunate who snagged a ticket or if you plan to head downtown that weekend just to soak up the Swift-mosphere: There are a number of ways you can reserve parking in advance for the nights of the concerts, so you can shake off those jitters and enjoy the evening.

Here are a few ways you can reserve parking in advance in downtown Indianapolis. Visit downtownindy.org/explore/parking for a more comprehensive list of parking garages in the downtown area.

ParkWhiz is a convenient option to search for parking options across the city. As of early September, there were spots for as low as $40 in the area immediately surrounding the stadium, with the closest spots topping $200. To view available parking locations and see current pricing, visit parkwhiz.com/lucas-oil-stadium-parking .

Didn't score Eras Tour tickets? Here are some other Taylor Swift-themed events to check out

In most cases, rather than traditional parking meters, Indianapolis uses zone parking and centralized meters along sidewalks. You can use the ParkMobile app (available on Google Play and the Apple App Store ) to enter your zone code and pay for your parking meter. You can also use it to reserve parking in advance of large events.

As of early September, spots were still available to be reserved at 200 N. Illinois St. for $67.20. These spots allow for parking between 5 p.m. and midnight on show days, and the garage is less than a mile from the stadium.

If you want to wait until the day of the concert, you can also use the app to find available spaces and add time to your meter remotely.

Similar to ParkWhiz and ParkMobile, SpotHero allows you to scope out parking opportunities across the city. And, like the other sites, parking closest to the stadium those nights will cost more — as of early September, spots near Lucas Oil Stadium were mostly between $75 and $100. To search for spots, visit spothero.com/destination/indianapolis/lucas-oil-stadium-parking .

Denison parking garages

You can reserve spots in a number of Denison Parking facilities in advance, with prices ranging from $31 (furthest from stadium) to $86 (closest to stadium). For more information about the garages and current pricing, visit bit.ly/47eeZxo .

Downtown Indianapolis parking map

Here's a map of parking options around downtown, compiled by Visit Indy:

Contact IndyStar pop culture reporter Holly Hays at [email protected]. Follow her on X/Twitter: @hollyvhays.

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The tastes of Sicily west to east

14 days from $12,225pp

• Day-to-day Itinerary
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Tour highlights

Experience Palermo like a local with a street food city tour.

Stay among vineyards and olive groves at a working winery.

Learn to cook traditional dishes with a Sicilian Mamma.

Visit the summit of Mount Etna before enjoying a wine tasting lunch on its foothills.

Price includes:

• In-destination transfers
• Activities and excursions as detailed
• All accommodations
• 24-hour support while you travel

Itinerary idea in detail

Ask us if you would also like us to arrange your international flights at our preferred rates.

Arriving in Sicily, you're met at the airport and transferred by your private driver to your hotel in the nearby seaside town of Cefalù. You then have the rest of the afternoon at leisure to either rest after your flight or explore the town's winding medieval streets filled with shops and cafés.

Today you will learn about the history of Cefalù with your private guide before continuing to Abbazia Santa Anastasia, a converted medieval abbey turned winery where you can enjoy amazing views and a delicious wine paired lunch. Before returning to Cefalù, you will enjoy some free time in the charming village of Castelbuono, up in the Madonie foothills.

Today you will drive one hour into the vibrant city of Palermo with your driver. This city is a real melting pot of architecture, culture and of course food. With a private guide, you will delve into one of the city's bustling markets and enjoy a range of street food as well as taking in some of the main sites such as the Quatro Canti. After your tour, you will head back to Cefalù.

You will travel southwest today to the amazing La Foresteria Planeta wine estate just outside of Menfi. You will then have the day at leisure to explore the amazing grounds and facilities.

Today you can take your pick from a host of amazing experiences on offer at La Foresteria Planeta Estate, from wine tasting and cookery classes to gourmet bike tours. In addition to the panoramic outdoor pool and spa, for those wanting a more relaxed day you can visit the nearby Insula Beach Club.

Next stop an hour east is Agrigento, home to the Valley of the Temples UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will head first to settle into your accommodation at the intimate Fontes Episcopi agriturismo. Here you will enjoy a local cooking experience with a real Sicilian mamma and learn to make simple and authentic local dishes, before tucking into them. This evening you will visit the Valley of the Temples with your guide. You will take a gentle stroll down through the archaeological area, learning about the ruins of what was once the great city of Akragas founded in 581 BC with its five massive Doric temples for which the valley takes its name.

You will be fully immersed in everyday Sicilian life as you visit the ancient hilltop village of Sant’Angelo Muraxo. You will see the village's thriving community including a local farm, a woman who makes fresh Ricotta daily and a baker. You will of course be able to taste some samples too! The day culminates with a stop at a local home for some homemade food and wine.

You will journey east today through the Sicilian countryside to your next base, the tiny island of Ortigia. This one-kilometer square island forms the historic center of Syracuse and is linked to the rest of the city via two small bridges. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to settle into your charming hotel and explore the cobbled streets teaming with shops and cafés on Ortigia.

With your private guide today you will walk through the winding streets of Ortigia. You’ll visit the stunning Piazza del Duomo as well as the buzzing market area and learn about the island's historical heritage. Many fascinating ruins can also be found in the archaeological park on the mainland, where you will travel with your guide and driver. The most impressive is the 5th-century Teatro Greco, an ancient theater which sat 16,000 people and where many of the most famous Greek Tragedies were premiered.

Time to get active today and see the natural beauty of eastern Sicily with a guided walk through the Vendicari Nature Reserve. This reserve is the most visited in Sicily and certainly one of the most scenic. In addition to stunning landscapes, the reserve is a wildlife hotspot, particularly for bird species. Due to its location, many migratory birds stop here during their journey from Africa to Europe, species often seen include herons, egrets and flamingos. Loggerhead sea turtles are also native to the reserve, and they lay their eggs on the beaches. After your tour and perhaps a sea dip, if you wish, you will be transferred back to Ortigia.

This morning you will depart from your hotel with your private driver and head for the Baroque town of Noto, where you will have some time to explore. The main street is filled with Baroque architecture with impressive buildings such as the Duomo, Teatro Vittorio Emmanuele III and the Palazzo Ducezio. From Noto, your driver will take you to the picturesque seaside town of Marzamemi, where you will have free time for lunch. Afterwards, you will head to a local winery. You will tour the winery, learning about the production process before having the chance to sample some local wines, each perfectly paired with aperitivi or mini desserts. When you are finished at the winery your driver will drive you to your final base of Taormina.

Mount Etna is Europe’s largest active volcano. With your guide and driver, you’ll drive around the base of the mountain before ascending. Once you’ve reached as far as you can by road, you will continue your journey by cable car to reach the upper slopes. From here you’ll jump in one of the all-terrain vehicles that take you up through the barren landscape to the dramatic craters at the summit. With a resident mountain guide, you will have chance for a short walk to view more of the landscape on foot. After heading back down, it will be time for some lunch. The rich volcanic soils here make the slopes of Etna excellent for wine production. You will be taken to a local winery for a tasting lunch.

Today, you will embark upon a scenic boat ride along the bay of Taormina, taking in sweeping views of the dramatic coastline, then head to Isola Bella, a tiny island off the coast of Sicily known for its biodiverse plant and marine life. You can enjoy time to swim, snorkeling or simply sunbathe. Later today you are at leisure and may wish to spend your time strolling around the center of Taormina which is rich with history and teaming with shops, cafés and restaurants.

Your private driver will take you to the airport in Catania for your departing flight.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodations, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

Hotel Le Calette No 5

La Foresteria Planeta Estate

Fontes Episcopi

Hotel Villa Athena

Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna

Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel

Villa Paradiso

Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea

Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

View more accommodations in Taormina

Catania International Airport Hotel

• Cefalù

The specialist who designs your trip to Italy will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

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