The Lighthouse

Planning group travel takes a little bit of marketing know-how, a LOT of skillful organization, and a passion for adventure.  Anyone can do it – but not everyone can do

The name Cody, Wyoming conjures up images of the Wild West, magnificent rustic landscapes, and rough-riding gunslingers moseying through town.  Today’s Cody is, in fact, Cody is all of that

The travel and tourism industry is on track to contribute 9.5 trillion (with a “T!”) to the global economy in 2023.  That’s due in large part to the group travel

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005. It was to go into full effect in October 2020.  Then we hit a bump in the road… well, let’s be honest. 

As productive adult members of society, we strive for success in all we do.  We build careers, keep track of our children’s busy lives, and give back to our communities. 

It’s been a slow return, but we’re once again putting travel at the top of our to-do lists. In fact, the global travel and tourism sector is forecast to fully

In a country where beauty, history, and heritage abound, Manchester, England stands out as one of its most dynamic.  Its rich traditions of industry, science, and music, combined with a

Group travel is exploding right now.  Everyone wants to see the world with friends and family.  2023 is seeing a full recovery in international travel with nearly 90% of insured

As Independence Day approaches, many of us are packing our bags and hitting the road.  Whether you’re planning a picnic at Grandma’s or a long weekend at the beach, we

Skiplagging is a term we’re hearing everywhere right now.  It’s popping up in news reports, podcasts, and blogs.  But what does it mean?  And why is it so controversial?  We’ll

Finland is dubbed one of the happiest countries in the world.  It’s known for its stunning Northern Lights, clear, crisp vodka, and free healthcare.  It boasts a world-class education system,

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a beautiful city with so much to offer. From its stunning architecture to its rich culture and history, there’s something for every group and

AI will Transform the Travel Industry The travel industry has been revolutionized by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recent years. With AI algorithms and machine learning, it is now possible to

Just like everything else, travel is changing and evolving. Tourism and tech are colliding, resulting in fresh and intriguing ways to explore destinations.  And we’ve found one of the best

Planning your 2024 trip to the happiest place on earth? Next year is going to be a game-changer at Walt Disney World. From the return of dining plans to simplifying

You’re at the airport with a dying phone. People are spread out on the floor or huddling around outlets trying to squeeze in a quick charge before the flight. No

Even if you’ve never been, you probably know a little bit about New Orleans.  Outrageous Mardi Gras celebrations, melting beignets, or the jazzy sounds for which the city is renowned

Travel is awesome.  Exploring new places, meeting new friends, trying new things – it’s such a rush!  But as you indulge your wanderlust, remember that your adventure is someone else’s

Liverpool is a lively, cultural hub where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea.  And in case you didn’t know, it’s also home to four guys who rocketed to international

On a recent trip to NYC, my family crowded around an ancient MetroCard dispenser in the 42nd Street station.  It was (of course) uncooperative, and we became increasingly frustrated until

We live in a digital world populated with chatbots, robocallers, and Alexas.  And it’s a wonderful thing!  Technology makes our lives easier in so many ways- but it can’t replace

Civil Rights History in the Making For more than 200 years, the African American community has been rooted deeply in Fredericksburg.  Nothing symbolized the city’s long engagement in the transatlantic

Travel planners and advisors around the globe know that time is ALWAYS a precious commodity.  Everyone wants a piece of you – regardless of the time of day!  That’s why

As an industry, we have countless years of combined experience, expertise, and stories worth sharing.  GTO invites you to get the dialogue going when you become a GTO Beacon Blogger.

You’ve been there.  Scrambling to find a tour director for that last-minute group – or to replace the one that dropped the trip at the last minute.  What about wading

A Cheat Sheet for the Un-Tech Savvy! Why is it that we can never get it quite right?  We spend big bucks on the jPhoneXRUltra only to find that 6

Do you ever pass a motorcoach on the road and wonder where it’s headed?  Or pass by your favorite restaurant when you see one in the parking lot?  More than

On the east side of England is a spot reminiscent of fairy tales.  It’s a place of rare natural beauty, cobbled and quaint seaside villages, and royal hideaways.  As you

On the Road Again We’re back to holiday road trippin’ with Destination Dispatch.  Let’s “wrap up” with our final favorite group destinations of 2022! Mobile, AL While New Orleans gets

A Highlight of Our Favorite Faces and Places in 2022  As we wrap up 2022, we’re holiday road trippin’ with Destination Dispatch! Ride along as we highlight our favorite places

We’ve seen some pretty wild swings in travel during the past few years.  From no travel at all to staycations, bleisure, and even revenge travel, we’re getting back to what

As a group tour operator, repeat business is your bread and butter.  Happy travelers will sign up again and again if they love how you run a trip.  Make your

Richmond is one of those rare destinations that promises something for everyone.  It boasts a rich history, epic culture and arts scene, thrilling outdoor adventures, and fresh family fun. But

Planning a group trip is always an adventure (pun intended!)  If you’re heading to a new destination, or even back to an old favorite, you’re never quite sure what you’re

Fun fact! There are 41 cities named Springfield in 35 U.S. states.   But the only place to find all things Abe and other fascinating surprises are in Springfield, Illinois. All

We all know the iconic Beach Boys hit “Good Vibrations.”  The first few notes immediately paint a picture in our minds of sand, surf, and summer in the California sun! 

Planning a trip to the UK can feel a little overwhelming.  The sheer volume of must-see attractions and vast territory might leave you second-guessing your itinerary.  That’s why we think

Everyone knows that Anaheim is home to Walt Disney’s first theme park.  But did you know that it began as a home to German farmers and vintners?  Anaheim is a

I have a vivid memory of my first trip to Williamsburg.  It was 1979, and I was road-tripping in the back of our family station wagon (before seatbelts, of course!) 

300 days of bright sunshine.  That should be an incentive for anyone to visit the Reno Tahoe area.  But more than just brilliant blue skies, painted desserts, and a chic

The capital of Manitoba sparkles in the Great White North.   It’s a place of long-standing tradition, rich culture, expansive beauty, and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet!  It’s also packed

Travel is all about finding the hidden gems and tucked away places that others have overlooked.  Grapevine, Texas is a treasure trove of sophisticated experiences and down-home fun just waiting

I cannot tell a lie.  Fredericksburg, Virginia is one of those rare places that immediately charms you with its quaint storefronts and tree-lined, cobbled streets.  Its authentic, 1700s homes and

The wild west is still alive and kicking in Pendleton, Oregon!  It’s a city that prides itself on a rich heritage, colorful culture, and pioneer grit.  Hang on to your

In 1870, W.C. Ralston, director of the Central Pacific Railroad, settled in a pretty little place in the San Joaquin Valley.  It was situated just southeast of San Francisco along

If you’ve never been to Nashville, you should stop reading this and start planning your trip immediately.  Nashville is a big city with a small town feel that’s packed with

From the beaches to the big top, Sarasota is an eclectic blend of beauty, history, culture, and glitz!  Here are 5 can’t miss adventures in Sarasota! Stop at Siesta Key

If the term “group travel” conjures up images of your grandparents on a bus, it’s time to refresh your perspective!  Anyone can plan a group trip – girls’ trips, youth

Inspire Your Travel Tribe Your travel tribe is clutch.  Exploring the world with people who share your interests makes the group experience so much better.  So how do you get

Mobile has deep roots in the deep south.  It was founded in 1702 as the French capital of Louisiana.  For the next 100+ years was a colony of France, Great

The colorful streets, intimate nooks and crannies, and ancient hills provide the perfect backdrop for visitors hoping to unplug and recharge.  Refresh your mind, body, and spirits in Santa Fe!

Two states, five cities, and one epic adventure! Let’s find out why you need to visit the Quad Cities… What are the Quad Cities? As the mighty Mississippi surges toward

Full disclosure.  Until recently, the sum total of my Milwaukee knowledge was limited to Laverne & Shirley (for those under the age of 40, see below!)  Milwaukee, however, is more

Travel tribes come in all shapes and sizes – ages, too!  When you’re selling group travel, you have to meet people where they are.  In other words, you’re probably not

Ron Burgundy was wrong.  San Diego means warm sunshine, beautiful beaches, and epicurean experiences.  Ok… well, it really means “Saint Diego,” but for visitors to this fabulous city, it might

Growing up in PA, I spent many wonderful summers exploring Gettysburg. It didn’t occur to me that a national treasure was practically in my backyard. I took for granted that

  A magnificent spot tucked into the Virginia mountains and dripping with southern charm, rich history, and homegrown, crafted beverages.  Charlottesville offers sips and sagas for your group getaway! A

A recent survey showed that 62% of Generation Zers and 39% of Millenials prefer to travel in groups.  Translation – group travel planners are about to be very busy! Group

   National Travel and Tourism Week 2022 (May 1-7) spotlights the dynamic, innovative future of the U.S. travel industry. The Future of Travel This National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW),

Just outside the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C. is a historic treasure tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Loudoun County is a stunning region brimming with adventure, charm,

Explore 7 Hidden Gems in Huntsville Huntsville is the Rocket City for a reason.  I mean, you can’t miss the 363-foot Saturn V rocket towering over I-565!   The Huntsville landmark

In 2019, 24.6 million people visited Washington DC.  That’s a LOT of humans crowded into the streets and stops in our nation’s capital.  If your group is looking for a

What do you think of when you hear Savannah?  Charming brick streets lined with elegantly preserved colonial homes?  Spanish moss dripping from ancient oak trees?  Horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping through historic

Norfolk is one of those special destinations that comes with a little extra allure.  It has incredible attractions, an epic history, rich culture, and amazing food – packaged beautifully in

As travel comes racing back, international destinations are at the tops of group lists.  Summer 2022 bookings in Europe are up 80% from last year. Most borders are open, and

5 ways technology keeps your business on track… As 2022 begins with yet another COVID surge, group tour planners are trying to strike a balance between business and client needs. 

The name Tyler conjures up rolling hills and vineyards, charming brick streets lined with quaint shops, cool blue lake waters, and (of course!) the perfume of sweet roses.  The Rose

In the group travel planning world, time is a precious commodity.  Spending time finding suppliers, tracking down rates, updating contacts, and then doing it all again in 12 months takes

Growing your tour operator business is hard work.  Really hard work.  But there are tips and tricks that can help your business grow that you may not have considered.  Let’s

GTO just keeps growing!  And while we do, we’re improving how we support our awesome community! One of the distinctly unique features of Group Travel Odyssey is our commitment to

Somewhere in Mackinaw If you’re a fan of movies that tug the heartstring, chances are you’ve probably seen Somewhere in Time starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour.   It’s a

Planning a group trip is always an adventure (pun intended!)  If you’re heading to a new destination, or even back to an old favorite, you’re never quite sure what you’re

Generation S! If you didn’t already know, the market for group travel is HOT!  And right in the middle of the group travel trend is Generation S.  That’s right… there’s