How is a tour operator different from a travel agent?
“A tour operator is a business that sells multiple components (air, hotel, car, tour, etc.) as one package,” says Ayanna Canty, spokeswoman for the American Society of Travel Agents. “A travel agent is a retailer that sells individual products (only air, only hotel), as well as packages directly to consumers.” Also, travel agents usually book from a number of chains and carriers, while tour operators sell their own packages. Both are in the business of knowing travel, and their respective destinations well, so make use of their knowledge. My friend took a group tour and ended up playing bingo and going on short, “low-impact” strolls instead of the high-octane excursions she likes. How can I avoid that? Know what kind of traveler you are and find a tour operator with the same mindset. Don’t be afraid to ask about the age range, activity level, and tour type (nature, adventure, culture, luxury, etc.). If you’re set on trekking through central China, don’t sign up for the cultural tour—ta
