By Brett Jardine, Managing Director, Council of Australian Tour Operators
WHEN it comes to planning international travel, Australians have a plethora of options at their disposal. However, there’s a compelling case to be made for entrusting arrangement to tour operators and wholesalers accredited by the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO).
Expertise and Reliability: CATO-accredited tour operators and wholesalers have demonstrated their commitment to high standards of professionalism and expertise in the travel industry. By collaborating with these accredited partners, agents ensure that their clients are in capable hands. These operators possess extensive knowledge about various destinations, local customs, and regulations, which greatly enhances the travel experience.
Consumer Protection: CATO-accredited operators must adhere to Australian Consumer Law, prioritising consumer protection. This means that when agents book through these operators, they’re offering their clients a layer of assurance against unforeseen disruptions, cancellations, or other issues that might arise during international travel. Travel agents can rest easy knowing that their clients’ investments are safeguarded which is not the case when booking directly with international DMC’s and suppliers.
Tailored Experiences: One size does not fit all when it comes to travel. CATO-accredited tour operators and wholesalers understand this, which is why they are typically either destination specialists or specialists in a particular style of travel.
Industry Connections: CATO-accredited partners have established strong relationships all over the world with local suppliers and service providers. This translates into creating exceptional travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Peace of Mind: Booking through CATO-accredited operators gives travel agents peace of mind as this allows agents to focus on delivering exceptional customer service, knowing that the logistical details of their clients’ trips are in the hands of experienced professionals.
Choosing to work with CATO-accredited tour operators and wholesalers will allow agents to build stronger relationships with their clients, ensuring repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
