Lewis and Clark, Christopher Columbus, Neil Armstrong, Indiana Jones … these famous explorers (real and imagined) are known by all. But what about the explorers of today? Who are they and what are they discovering?   

Behind every great travel experience is a phenomenal tour product manager – these “Modern Day Explorers” scout undiscovered experiences in new and emerging destinations, rediscover what’s new in beloved places, and get to know the community with the single goal of designing enriching itineraries for travelers to book.  

In 2016, USTOA is taking you behind-the-scenes with a handful of these Modern Day Explorers to discover how they find the rich and immersive experiences enjoyed by the eight million people who travel with our tour operator members each year.

From inspecting bedding and bathroom facilities to scouting insider access and exclusive activities, these Modern Day Explorers will take you along every aspect of their journey. They’ll bring you “up close and personal” with people and experiences that will amaze and inspire...visit a local animal whisperer in Gozo, Malta; take a private archeological tour of Huahine, an island of Tahiti;  discover the best views of Yellowstone National Park’s famous Old Faithful geyser; find hidden culinary gems off-the-beaten-path in the Philippines, and many more.

We’ve assembled a dream team of explorers to capture and share their adventures with you. Their experiences vary in many ways – some are putting together itineraries in destinations for the very first time while others are revisiting popular destinations to see what’s new, some work with luxury brands, some focus on outdoor experiences while others focus on wellness and culture – but at the heart, all are focused on putting together the “best of the best” itineraries for their guests.

Get ready to discover the Philippines with Louise Shumbris of Abercrombie & Kent, Malta with Carol Dimopoulos of Perillo’s Learning Journeys, The Islands of Tahiti with Bronwyn Hodge of Goway Travel, Yellowstone National Park with Kasey Austin of Austin Adventures with the support of Xanterra Parks & Resorts, Chile with Rebecca Rhyan of Cox & Kings, The Americas, and Max Aly of SITA World Tours.  

You can watch and read about their travels… those already completed and many more to come throughout the year. You’ll be transported right beside them, and, we hope inspired to follow in their footsteps on your own journey of discovery.

Get ready to discover why it’s always better to Travel Together!