NTA Presents Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award
October 13, 2026
For Agustín Caparrós, joining the National Tour Association was one of the most important decisions of his professional career. More than 25 years later, that decision has led to another milestone: being named the recipient of NTA’s Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award.
The award is NTA’s highest honor, recognizing individuals whose dedication, volunteer contributions, and service to the association and its members have spanned at least 20 years.
Caparrós, founder of A Closer Look Tours, has spent more than 25 years helping travelers experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of México. His family-owned company specializes in guided tours throughout the country, including its renowned Copper Canyon region.
“When Catherine [Prather, NTA president] called from NTA, I initially worried it was about a membership fee increase,” he recalled. “Instead, she informed me that I had been selected to receive the Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The news brought back memories of another important moment in his career.
“It felt like a dream, filling me with the same pride and joy I experienced 25 years ago when I received my acceptance letter from NTA,” Caparrós said.
Building a Business Through Connections
Like many NTA members, Caparrós began his involvement by attending industry events and introducing himself to fellow travel professionals.
“I fondly recall my early days walking the aisles at conventions and spring events to build business contacts,” he said.
Those early conversations helped him establish relationships, but it was his decision to become more involved in the association that he credits with making the greatest difference.
“However, my most impactful decision was getting involved as a volunteer,” Caparrós said. “That step was instrumental in growing my company from five employees to a loyal team of 20.”
For Caparrós, NTA became much more than a place to meet potential business partners. The association also provided opportunities to learn, collaborate, and develop lasting professional relationships.
“Joining the National Tour Association was the best decision I ever made for my business, thanks to the invaluable relationships formed and the outstanding professional education provided through NTA’s seminars,” he said.
Through A Closer Look Tours, Caparrós has built a business focused on connecting travelers with the people, landscapes, and traditions of México. The company’s guided experiences reflect his passion for the country and his commitment to helping visitors discover destinations beyond the familiar.
A Message for the Next Generation
Receiving the Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award places Caparrós among a distinguished group of NTA members and industry leaders recognized for their lasting contributions to the association.
Established in 2003, the award honors individuals who have demonstrated active dedication to NTA’s mission, extensive volunteer service, and a commitment to the ethics, quality, and sense of community that define the association.
As he reflects on his years of involvement, Caparrós hopes other members will recognize the value of participating beyond the business appointments and networking events.
“Over the years, NTA has proven to be a premier organization offering incredible networking opportunities,” he said. “I strongly encourage the next generation of members to participate, volunteer, and make the most of everything NTA has to offer.”
His message is especially meaningful as NTA celebrates its 75th anniversary and prepares to bring members together at Travel Exchange ’26 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
For Caparrós, the recognition is a reminder of the relationships, opportunities, and experiences that began with a simple decision to join NTA more than two decades ago. And for the next generation of members, his story offers a valuable lesson: Sometimes the greatest opportunities come from getting involved.