Tour operators and travel agents may sound similar, but there are some important differences when it comes to the roles they play in the planning of your vacation. There is some overlap in the services each provide, but it’s a good idea to understand which one suits your needs when deciding to plan a vacation abroad. Let’s talk through both options.
The Main Difference:
A tour operator is responsible for operating and providing your vacation by booking, packaging and organizing your hotel, transportation, meals, guides, optional tours and—sometimes—flights. Many tour operators are considered “land-only operators,” which means they focus on the aspects of your package once you arrive in your destination. This means they don’t book flights from your home to the destination as frequently, but once you take that first step off of the plane, everything is taken care of.
Travel agents hold the role of selling and administering packages from various tour operators to their personal clients based on what they’re looking for and what package suits each client best. While many tour operators focus on a select concentration of destinations, most travel agents can specialize in a range of them and then help you narrow down a package for that specific destination based on your budget, preferred method of travel and interests. Travel agents will then work directly with the tour operator to perfect your requests and provide the tour operator with the information and payments they need.
While travel agents used to be the immediate go-to option, the massive hike in internet presence in the last 20 years or so has led to many people independently booking a tour package directly with tour operators. For one, it’s more available than it has ever been in the past—often, the use of an agent to know what operators are out there and available is not needed. Today, most tour operators interact directly with clients and sell their own packages, removing the middle-man, though many people do still prefer to use their local or family travel agent they have relied on for years.
What Are We?
Did you guess tour operator? If so, you’re correct! Although we may not fit the description exactly. We do the booking, packaging and organizing of tour packages, but unlike many tour operators, we still offer that customization element to each of our travelers. None of our inspirational itineraries are bookable with just one click—one of our Personal Travel Specialists schedules a consultation call with each new customer to ensure we create an itinerary that suits their needs, budget and interests to a tee. We also have a pretty special calling card: our By-Your-Side Service℠ offers round-the-clock care before, during and even after your time abroad. Need a tour changed? No problem. Have a question about where to go for dinner? Drop us a note and we’ll respond right away.
While Tenon Tours is a tour operator, we work with and truly appreciate and value our relationships with travel agents as we both share the same goal of providing you with an unforgettable and stress-free vacation.
Are you ready to start planning your next vacation? Whether you choose to book through a travel agent or tour operator, make sure your itinerary is customized to your liking, budget and travel style. And don’t forget, we’re always here if you need an extra hand.
How We Travel
Learn More-
Self DriveHit the road your way: itinerary, car, accommodations, sights, and tours. But let us do all the heavy lifting.
-
Chauffeur
The freedom of your own private car, the luxury of your own personal guide. And the very best hidden secrets.
-
Scheduled Tour
For travelers who prefer to join a small group tour, we offer scheduled tours.
-
Rail
Convenient, comfortable, oozing with charm. With a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
-
Private Group
The trip of a lifetime, personalized just for your group of friends, family, or organization down to every last detail.
-
Honeymoon
Every tour is different, perfectly matched for every couple. Crafted by a team who is as excited about your honeymoon as you are.
More Articles
A Multigenerational Family Trip Idea: An Adventure in Ireland
Ready for a journey not confined by age but enriched by a multitude of perspectives, where toddlers explore with wide-eyed wonder and grandparents share wisdom and stories? An escape from bustling routines, school agendas and the constant drumbeat of daily life … a multigenerational exploration stands as an epitome of unity. So, let’s begin!
Fall in Love with Denmark
Situated on 400+ islands connected by ferries and bridges, you’ll find stunning coastline, endless beaches, and rolling hills & farmland laced with biking and walking paths. It’s an excellent destination for families, with a huge variety of family-friendly activities and attractions.
By-Your-Side Service℠
Our personal concierge service and mobile app
Custom Europe Experts
Experts in planning truly customized trips
Value without Compromise
High-touch inclusions and customized experiences
Consistency with Individuality
You’ll always be met with the highest standards