All Tour Operations examinations will be based on this syllabus from December 2007

Main topics of study:

The Fundamental Working Structure of Tour Operating:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• Features of the Tour Operator’s Product
• The Main Categories of Tour Operator
• Domestic Tour Operators
• Specialist Tour Operators
• Incoming Tour Operators
• Independent Contractors and Producer-owned Companies
• Setting Up a Tour Operating Company
• The Market-place for Tour Operators
• The Tour Operating Company

The Planning, Pricing and Production of the Package Programme:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• Planning a Programme of Package Holidays
• The Outline Stages Involved in the Planning of a Tour Programme

The Tour Operators’ Products and Destinations:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• The Short-haul Product - Europe
• The Long-haul Product
• Holiday Product Types

Tour Operating Marketing:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• Advertising
• Direct Marketing Through the Media
• The Internet Revolution for Tour Operators

The Brochure:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• The Booking Form
• Brochures: The Legal Position

Administration Procedures:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• Administration Departments
• Manual Reservation Systems
• Computerised Reservations Systems
• Holiday Documentation
• Other Administrative Functions
• The Role of the Sales Representative
• Recruitment and Training

Operations Overseas:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• The Overseas Department
• The Overseas Staff
• Resort Representatives
• Couriers
• Ski Resort Staff
• Campsite Organisers
• Adventure Tour Leaders
• Drivers
• Cruise Company Employees
• What Happens in Emergencies?
• Questions and Discussion Points

Tour Operating and the Law:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction to the History of Legislation and Control
• The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992
• Consumer Law
• Bonding of Holidays
• The CAA and Bonding of Holidays with an Air Travel Component
• Air Travel Trust Fund (ATTF)
• Insurance Law
• Tour Operators’ Trade Associations
• Discussion Point

Travel Patterns and Trends:

• Learning Objectives
• An Overview of Destination Trends
• The Future Picture
• Fighting Back

The Impact of Tour Operations on Destinations:

• Learning Objectives
• Introduction
• Factors Which Can Affect a Tour Operator’s Programme
• Access and Transport
• Tour Operators’ Reactions

Case Studies and Press Articles on the Travel Industry:

• Tapestry Holidays
• Palmair
• Warsaw Convention Airline Case
• Surcharges
• Operators Face Fuel Rap Too
• Bonding
• Destination Marking
• Cruise Venture
• The Grey Market
• Sustainable Travel
• Virtual Brochures

Reading List

Main Text:

The Holiday Organisers – Christopher Mace