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HOW TO READ A TOUR BROCHURE--
USTOA OFFERS TEN HINTS

For some travelers, half the fun of going on a trip is preparing for it. The more you know before you go, the more satisfying the trip will be.

Robert E. Whitley, President of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), suggests that travelers "read up" on their destination's history and characteristics, and study the climate to select the appropriate clothes for various activities. But most of all, Mr. Whitley urges, to ensure a successful trip, travelers should read the tour brochure the travel agent has provided. "It is the best way to avoid disappointment and know what you're getting for your dollar," he says.

To aid travelers in understanding and getting the most from a tour brochure, USTOA offers the following guidelines:

  1. Price: Be sure to check carefully what is included in the tour price and what is not. Are airfare, meals, transfers, accommodations, sightseeing covered?
  2. Itinerary: Read the itinerary thoroughly. Are all the spots you planned to see included? Too many? Too few?
  3. Pace: Will the tour include too many places in too short a time? Is there enough free time, or too much? Too much walking for your comfort? Not enough sightseeing? Check these against your preferences.
  4. Size of Group: Do you want a smaller, more personalized tour, or a larger group where you can share the trip with a variety of people? Make sure that this aspect of the tour matches your own needs and preferences.
  5. Terms: Foreign hotel ratings may not reflect American standards. Understand that "economy" may mean a private bath in the U.S. but not necessarily overseas; and that a "deluxe" hotel in one country could differ in size, style, and degree of luxury from a similarly rated hotel in another country. Ask about the location and facilities of your hotels before you select your tour.
  6. Single Supplement: Many tours charge extra for travelers who want single accommodations. Some tour companies offer roommate shares for single travelers. Check out the total cost beforehand, and whether roommate shares are offered.
  7. Conditions: READ CAREFULLY the "conditions” page in your brochure. It explains the tour operator's rights and yours, service or schedule substitutions, baggage allowances and damage policy, cancellation and penalty policies, and a lot more. Take particular note of the "Responsibility" clause, which describes legal rights and relationships of and between the operator, the suppliers of tour components, and the traveler.
  8. Compare: If one company features your dream tour for $1,000 and another the same one for $300, check what the differences are. Which offers the most for your money? Remember, you get what you pay for. Don't be fooled -- do your homework.
  9. Questions: Don't hesitate to ask your travel agent any questions you might have relating to the information in a brochure. The agent will be able to answer, or will get the information for you from the tour operator.
  10. USTOA: To help in your quest for the perfect tour, write for a free copy of "How To Select A Tour or Vacation Package," available from USTOA, 275 Madison Avenue, Suite 2014, New York, NY 10016; phone 1(800) GO-USTOA (486-7862); or E-mail Information@ustoa.com. Or visit the USTOA web site: www.ustoa.com.

The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) was founded in 1972 as a nonprofit trade organization to foster professional and financial "integrity in tourism." USTOA has established high standards of ethical conduct among its members, disseminates pertinent information, and requires clarity and honesty in advertising.

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Press Contact:

Linda Kundell
Kundell Communications
(212) 877-2798 phone
(212) 877-3387 fax
LRKPR@att.net or LRKPR@aol.com

For all other inquiries about USTOA, please contact USTOA.