The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) introduced a new online directory for travelers interested in researching and accessing adventure tour operators.
“Featuring only pre-qualified ATTA members, the new site provides consumers with an in-depth directory of physical, cultural and nature-based adventure travel tour operators from around the globe, plus a host of trip planning resources,” says the ATTA.
The group says the move is in response to increasing demand for a reliable and credible online resource for consumers.
“In a time where paid placement tends to secure top billing in online directories, Adventure.Travel instead delivers high quality, trusted tour operator listings affiliated with a respected global trade association,” said ATTA President Shannon Stowell. He added:
“In this case, it’s not about having the biggest directory, it’s about having the best quality resources to build confidence among travelers.”
A major difference between the ATTA’s new consumer resource and other adventure travel online directories is that tour operators at Adventure.Travel may not purchase their way to top listings. Instead, participating businesses rise in directory search rankings based on quality measures.
Such measures include consumer reviews (launching November 2007), and eventually signed commitments to pursue sustainable tourism practices such as cultural, environmental and wildlife conservation.
In late 2007, Adventure.Travel consumer review capabilities will go live, providing customers the chance to rate and share specifics about the trips they’ve actually experienced.
Report by David Wilkening
