- Plans, organizes, and markets tours and travel packages.
- Contracts with various travel service providers, such as hotels, transportation companies, and attractions.
- Acts as a wholesaler, selling tours and packages to travel agents.
- May also offer additional services, such as visa assistance and insurance.
Travel Agent:
- Represents and acts on behalf of travelers.
- Assists in planning and booking travel itineraries, including flights, accommodations, and tours.
- Provides advice and recommendations based on travelers' preferences and budget.
- May work for a travel agency or independently as a travel consultant.
Key Differences
- Tour operators create and market tours and packages, while travel agents assist individuals in booking and planning their travel.
- Tour operators contract with travel service providers and act as wholesalers, while travel agents sell directly to consumers.
- Tour operators may offer additional services, such as visa assistance and insurance, while travel agents typically focus on assisting with booking travel itineraries.
