NTA Encourages Group Travel as the Best Form of Conservation for Travelers

September 27, 2005

National Tour Association Encourages Group Travel as the Best Form of Conservation for Travelers
Bush administration stresses importance of conserving energy

September 27, 2005 – In an effort to make up for fuel shortages caused by the recent hurricanes along the U.S. Gulf Coast and assist in the preservation our nation’s natural resources, the National Tour Association is encouraging group travel as the best form of fuel conservation for travelers.

"While the National Tour Association believes that our industry must do its part to assist in energy conservation, it’s equally important to continue encouraging Americans to invest in travel and tourism," NTA President Hank Phillips, CTP, said. "One effective way to do this is through group travel. Group travel is not only more efficient in terms of fuel consumption, it also is more economical for travelers with today’s gas prices."

At the U.S. Department of Energy Monday, Sept. 26, the Bush administration stressed to the nation the importance of being better conservers of energy. In the Sept. 27 issue of the Washington Post, President Bush was quoted saying, "People just need to recognize that the storms have caused disruption and that if they are able to maybe not drive…on a trip that’s not essential, that would be helpful."

While NTA recognizes the importance of fuel conservation, without strong group tours continuing to the hurricane-affected states, the region could have a second significant economic hit.

Last week, in a letter to President Bush, the association requested that the rebuilding of the tourism industry in the Gulf Coast be a priority. The letter noted that tourism restoration, development and promotion are an investment, and support of the industry will generate additional tax revenues to aid in the recovery of the affected region.

The Travel Industry Association of America estimates the travel industry in the affected areas of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama accounts for $18.3 billion in travel-related business annually and more than 260,000 industry jobs.

The National Tour Association has nearly 4,000 tourism professional members from 28 countries involved in the growth and development of the packaged travel industry. Its membership includes tour operators – group, independent, inbound and outbound – and the destinations and suppliers that partner with them. The association is committed to providing business results and information to its members, while offering a collaborative, caring environment in which to build relationships. For more information, please visit http://www.ntaonline.com/.

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