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GDS Travel Group

OFF THE BEATEN PATH FOR a Wandering Soul

We will create the adventure! 

Specializing only in FIT adventures, we will take your ideas and turn them into a path. From backpacking through the Appalachians to boating in the Galapagos Islands, we put together the itinerary that fulfills your adventurous spirit! Most of our customized packages are a minimum of 10 days, and we work with the highest caliber of suppliers to confirm your itineraries. Custom planning starts at $500 per itinerary.  

Our process

We'll schedule an initial consultation to get a baseline for the type of adventure you're looking for. At that time the custom planning fee is processed. The initial consultation usually lasts 1- 1 1/2 hours. Then we'll work to prepare a quote for your adventure with three different options to choose from! 

Top Destinations

Current top destinations for FIT travel include the Galapagos Islands, Brazil, Austria, and New Zealand. Ask us about some of our pre-planned itineraries for these locations today! 

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What is a GDS (Global Distribution System)?

A Global Distribution System (GDS) is a central platform that enables travel agencies, online travel agencies, airlines, hotels, car rental companies and other service providers to distribute products and services efficiently. It serves as a one-stop shop for travel information and bookings, enabling seamless transactions and providing travelers with multiple options at competitive prices, underscoring its critical role in the modern travel industry.

How does a Global Distribution System work?

Here is a condensed description of how a GDS works:

• Integration : Service providers such as airlines, hotels and car rental companies integrate their inventory and pricing information into the GDS database.
• Access : Travel agents access the Global Distribution System through specialized software or web interfaces. They can search for available flights, hotel rooms, rental cars and other travel services based on specific criteria such as date, destination and budget.
• Reservation : Once a traveler selects a service, the travel agency or online travel agency makes the reservation directly through the GDS. The system then communicates with the service provider’s reservation system to confirm the booking and issue tickets or vouchers.
• Updates and changes : The GDS constantly updates availability and pricing information in real time to ensure that travel agents and travelers have access to the most up-to-date options. It also allows existing bookings to be changed or canceled if necessary.

Who uses a Global Distribution System?

Various companies in the travel industry rely on GDSs to help them operate:

• Travel Agencies : Both traditional brick-and-mortar travel agencies and online travel agencies use Global Distribution Systems to search and book travel on behalf of their clients.
• Airlines : The world’s major airlines distribute their flight inventory through GDSs, making it available to travel agents and travelers worldwide.
• Hotels : Hotel chains and individual properties use GDSs to distribute room availability and rates to travel agents and corporate clients.
• Car rental companies : Car rental companies integrate their fleets and rates into Global Distribution Systems, allowing travel agents to book cars for their clients.

What different GDSs are there?

There are several Global Distribution Systems (GDS) that are widely used in the travel and tourism industry. Here are some of the most popular:

• Amadeus : Amadeus is one of the largest GDSs and serves a wide range of travel suppliers worldwide, including airlines, hotels, car rental companies and tour operators.
• Sabre : Sabre is another leading GDS offering a full range of travel services. It is used by airlines, hotels, cruise lines, car rental companies and other travel service providers.
• Travelport : Travelport is a GDS provider that offers a range of solutions for the travel industry, including the Apollo, Galileo and Worldspan systems. It provides travel agencies with access to a wide range of travel services and also offers technology solutions for airlines, hotels and other travel suppliers.
• Worldspan : Worldspan is part of Travelport and provides a range of services to travel suppliers and travel agencies.
• ITA Software by Google : ITA Software is a technology company acquired by Google that provides travel search and booking solutions. It offers advanced tools for searching airfares, itineraries and availability.

These GDS systems offer similar services, but there are also differences in terms of functionalities, coverage, user interface and availability of additional services. Travel suppliers and travel agencies often choose the GDS that best suits their specific requirements.

Who finances a Global Distribution System?

Funding for a Global Distribution System typically involves a combination of revenue streams:

• Subscription fees : Travel agencies and OTAs pay subscription fees for access to the GDS platform and its services.
• Transaction fees : Service providers pay a commission or transaction fee for each booking made through the GDS.
• Additional services : Global Distribution System providers may offer additional services, such as marketing solutions, analytics and consulting, for which they charge fees.
• Advertising revenue : Some GDS platforms generate revenue through advertising partnerships with travel-related companies.

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Date: January 29, 2024

What is GDS? – A Simple Guide For New Travel Agencies

Many travel agents around the world are using the Global Distribution System (GDS) as their major booking channels. It is also responsible for the significant growth of the travel industry.

If you are brand new to the travel business, you will be probably wondering what a GDS is and why GDS is much important to develop travel agents website

In this blog, we are going to explore about GDS, its importance in the travel industry and what the future looks like for this primary reservation tool.

What is GDS?

Global Distribution System (GDS) is the brain of the travel industry. It is a computerized network system which provides real-time information to companies such as airlines, hotels, car rental and travel agencies. Each of these sectors uses GDS to view real-time inventory of services offered in the travel industry.

For example, using GDS, a travel agency can find the availability of hotel rooms, flight seats or cars on behalf of their clients and book through the same GDS. 

How Do Travel Companies Use Global Distribution System (GDS)?

Travel companies use GDS to find the best airline ticket, car rental, hotel rooms, etc. for their clients. Information is customized and by the travel companies based on the preferences and itinerary.

When a traveler requests information from a travel company, the agent will find the most accurate and cost-effective itinerary. Travel companies are charged every time they access the GDS or they can buy a particular software offered by the GDS on a yearly basis. Also, an average person can never access the GDS without the help of a travel agency or a vendor.

Evolution of Global Distribution System (GDS)

The airline industry created the first GDS in the 1960s to track flight schedules, availability and prices. In fact, the GDSs were actually among the first companies that aided B2B e-commerce in the world. They were used by the airline industry to automate the booking system , but, later travel agents were also given access.

These are some of the major GDS systems in the industry.

Apart from these famous GDS systems, there are other smaller regional GDS systems such as Travelsky , a state-owned company in China and; KIU System , a PSS and GDS used in Latin America.

What Are the Benefits of Using GDS?

GDS will be the most important channel of distribution for airlines, hotels and car rental companies. Here are some of the major benefits of using Global Distribution System (GDS).

• Effective in attracting international travelers
• 24/7 access to inventory
• Enables business models such as retail travel agency and OTA (Online Travel Agency)
• Offer consumers increased pricing transparency
• Travel agents can get a global platform with a strong market penetration
• Provide best rates to your customers which no other system can provide
• Place travel services to many clients without affecting your marketing budget

Frequently Asked Questions About GDS

1. how can i start using a global distribution system (gds).

To use a GDS, you have to be a professional travel agent. For that, you must have a proper industry ID such as an ARC (Airlines Reporting Corporation) or IATA (International Air Transport Association) number. Without this number, airline agencies will not know where to send your commission payments. Moreover, airline agencies will not allow unaccredited agents to issue tickets.

If you don’t want to get this certification, you can have a tie-up with an ARC or IATA host company who can book tickets on your behalf.

Some airlines will not allow you to issue tickets even if you have a full IATA license. To be on the safe side, before you sign for the GDS, make sure you talk to the particular airline to ensure if they will deal with you.

2. How much does it cost to use a GDS?

It depends on the specific service you want to use in the GDS. For example, if you want to use Amedeaus’s Flight booking software, they may sell it to you for $150-$160/year (contact the GDS provider to know the exact amount). The software will allow you to reserve tickets on any airlines.

3. Do I need a Global Distribution System (GDS)?

If you are a travel agent who falls under the below category, a GDS will be useful for you.

• A corporate travel agent who books on behalf of corporate clients or an individual working at a corporation who needs to book flight tickets for all their employees
• Complex itinerary agents who have steady clients with multiple travel plans
• High volume booking of air-only travel

If you are a leisure agent who doesn’t book air tickets multiple times in a day, you probably don’t need it.

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What is the future of gds in the travel industry.

The traditional role of GDS is changing and being challenged by the changes taking place in the travel industry. Many online travel websites and airlines are pushing and encouraging consumers to make bookings directly via their website. Some airlines are charging additional fees for tickets purchased via the GDS when compared to the pricing in their own website.

Some industry experts predict that GDS can turn into a direct corporate booking tool rather than a booking tool for travel companies.

For example, Southwest Airlines do not work with the GDS Company Worldspan; Sabre is used by American Airlines; PARS by USAir; TravelSky by Air China; and Worldspan by Delta. If you are an agent who uses WorldSpan, you cannot book with Southwest Airlines or you need to look for pricing directly on their website. Another newsworthy information is, agreements signed between airlines and GDS is on a renewal basis. Many in the travel industry are wondering if the airlines will renew their relationship with certain GDSs.

While changes will continue to impact the future growth of GDS, there will definitely be a role for them. Hopefully, they continue to evolve as they did from the old techniques in the 1950s.

We hope that you learned something new about the travel industry. Keep checking our blog section as we plan to further dismantle the ever-changing world of travel.

Do you have any questions? Feel free to reach our travel solution experts at ColorWhistle anytime. We are always happy to help.

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Anjana is a full-time Copywriter at ColorWhistle managing content-related projects. She writes about website technologies, digital marketing, and industries such as travel. Plus, she has an unhealthy addiction towards online marketing, watching crime shows, and chocolates.

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2024

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Executive Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Caroline has a passion for adventure travel and has hiked to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the bottom of the Grand Canyon in pursuit of a good story. Follow her around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2024 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Adventure Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Adventure Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten-path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Adventure Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 8-16 people and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Adventure Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Aventure Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Adventure Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Adventure Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

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Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,014 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $799 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $749.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 10 million dollars to over 160 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-35 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience foodie trip of a lifetime Intrepid Travel’s South Korea Real Food Adventure , which includes time in three cities and an overnight temple stay.

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination. For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina).

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $6,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to closer destinations like Mexico or Costa Rica—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife & Nature: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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Aspen Airport Infrastructure - Travel Notice Exception Policy

Affected Airports - City , State Association:

• Aspen, CO    (ASE)

For complete details View

American Airlines has implemented a special exception policy to our travel partners that is now available for our mutual customers due to operational disruptions, including delays and cancellations due to runway closure. Our Travel Notice exception policies on American are also available when ticketed to/from/through on our Joint Business partners: This applies to both prime and codeshare flights as shown below:

Inventory Requirements

Lowest Inventory, Same Cabin

If original inventory is not available rebook lowest inventory available in the same ticketed cabin. As a reminder, customers that do not hold a Basic Economy fare should never be booked into B inventory.

Basic Economy -

• Must be booked in B inventory only. If B inventory is not available, then an alternate flight must be selected. Advance Purchase and Ticket Change restrictions are waived.

Instant Upsell -

Refer to Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines for rebooking guidelines and Endorsement Box requirement when the customer purchased Instant Upsell (IU) directly with American on aa.com . IU PNRs contain the following SSRs:

• OTHS AGENCY RETAINS CONTROL OF TKT FOR REISSUES
• OTHS INSTANT UPSELL ANCILLARY EMD ISSUED 001xxxxxxxxxx

Refer to Exceptions to Fare Rules .

Note: If customers are unable to rebook or reissue their ticket within the given timeline, they can cancel their reservation and use the value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket; all rules and restrictions apply. Travel must commence no later than one year from the date of original issuance.

Endorsement Box Requirements

• Refer to individual Travel Notice for Event Name
• Ticket Reissue required. This is the only required verbiage and supersedes all other information.

Instant Upsell (IU) tickets must use waiver code: TNADV/IU when rebooking in the Instant Upsell Inventory IU PNRs contain the following SSRs:

Refer to Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines for Endorsement Box requirement when the customer purchased Instant Upsell (IU) directly with American on aa.com .

Changes to Origin/Destination - Not Allowed

• Waive Change Fee
• Ticket reissue for original ticketed fare
• 300 Mile Radius is always allowed, unless otherwise stated in the notice
• Changes to origin/destination are not permitted for the travel notice
• Any changes made to origin/destination all fare rules apply

300-Mile Radius Only - Allowed

• Within same country
• For booking inventory, view Inventory Requirements

Basic Economy Short-haul fares

book in B inventory only.If B inventory is not available, then an alternate flight must be selected.

Changes to Connection City

Changes to Co-Terminal

Changes to Co-terminal and MAC airports on AA Prime and AA*/Codeshare flights are allowed

• Co-terminal & MAC Airports are considered the same routing.  

Reissue Policy Information

American Airlines will waive change fees and travel agents may rebook and reissue tickets provided the below guidelines are met and applied:

• Ticket issued on the following ticket stock: AA 001, AY 105, BA 125, El053, IB 075, JL 131, QF 081
• Applies to AA*/ one world flights
• Travel has not commenced on the affected flight segment and the ticket has not been reissued by American Airlines
• The first departure flight is more than 2 hours away
• Affected coupons are in OK status
• Travel reissuance only in accordance to dates identified in the applicable Travel Notice Exception Advisory
• More than one change allowed without an additional collection, including penalty or change fee within the Travel Notice dates
• Original issuing agency responsible for ticket reissue
• Ticket Revalidation not permitted
• The return travel must be booked in the original class of service (inventory)
• Refer to Extend Travel Rebooking after the Travel Event
• Basic Economy must be rebooked in the appropriate Basic Economy inventory
• Please ensure the above procedures are accurately followed to prevent debit memo issuance

Rebooking - Exception to Fare Rules

Exception to Fare Rules: All fare rules apply with the exception of the following:

• Advance Purchase requirement waived
• Minimum/Maximum Stay requirement waived
• Change Fee waived
• When changes to the outbound travel occur, the unaffected return date may be changed to protect the original length of the trip. The return travel must be booked in the original class of service (inventory).

SalesLink Request

• Rebook flights in compliance with Travel Notice Exception Policy
• Log-in to SalesLink at www.saleslink.aa.com
• Request Type: select 'Service'
• Input AA PNR
• Waiver Type: select 'Travel Notice'
• Travel Notice: select applicable Travel Notice event name
• Select 'Next' - and complete request
• Verify: SalesLink approval remarks in PNR
• New Ticket Endorsement Box: Enter event name only
• Ticket Reissue required

Endorsement Box requirement: 05JUN24A or the exchange will be subject to a debit memo

Extend Travel Rebooking Guidelines

If customers are unable to rebook within the New Travel Dates, may reschedule their reservation to/from the same city or alternate cities and reissue their ticket with the below guidelines:

• Cancel their itinerary and apply the value of the original ticket towards the purchase of a new ticket for travel commencing within 1 year from the date of original issuance
• Change fee only is waived as long as the original ticket is reissued within ticket validity and the impact dates are in accordance with those identified in the Travel Notice
• Basic Economy fares may only be used towards the purchase of other Basic Economy fares.
• Residual MCO's are not allowed when using the TNADVE waiver code for reissue.
• Extend Travel Rebooking does not apply to tickets in conjunction with Instant Upsell (IU)

Refund Policy Information

When the flight is cancelled or the length of delay is 91+ minutes , travel agents may refund ticket(s) through normal GDS/ARC/BSP processing. Refer to our Schedule Irregularity policy for delays 90 minutes or less.

• Refund To Original Form Of Payment - All penalties/fees waived
• Non-Refundable Fare
• Refundable Fare with cancellation Fee
• Basic Economy Fare
• Bulk/Opaque Fare

Note: If the ticket has been exchanged by American as an INVOL submit the refund request directly with American. Refer to American Airlines Refunds .

When the flight is not cancelled or the length of delay is 90 minutes or less , a refund does not apply:

• If customer elects to cancel their reservation and use the value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket outside the Travel Notice dates; may use Extend Travel Rebooking or may hold ticket for future travel; all rules and restrictions apply.
• Travel must commence no later than one year from the date of original issuance.

En route/Diversion

• Connecting customers' en route to one of the above-listed destinations or whose flights are diverted will have the option to return to their original departure city and rebook travel to alternate future dates.
• Customers should work directly with the airport to obtain a boarding pass for return travel to their original departure city. If the customer wishes to rebook travel to alternate future dates, please contact American Airlines Reservations for assistance. Alternatively, they may receive a refund if re-accommodation options are unacceptable.
• If a ticket has already been reissued by American Airlines or the ticket is partially used, travel agents must submit the refund request online at https://prefunds.aa.com/refunds/

American Airlines will continue to monitor this Travel Notice Exception Advisory and adjust this policy if needed. Changes will be posted on AA.com and www.saleslink.aa.com reference. Please check these sources frequently for the most up to date information.

• www.saleslink.aa.com Reference: Select Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines
• Visit www.saleslink.aa.com and navigate to AA News and Offers to view current travel notices.
• Contact your Sales Support Center 800-621-8489 or American Airlines Reservations 800-433-7300 (U.S. and Canada) or for Reservations outside the U.S. and Canada, please see our Worldwide Reservations Numbers American Airlines encourages all customers to check flight and gate status prior to leaving for the airport. For complete travel information, visit AA.com .
• Group reservations must be changed by AA Group & Meeting Travel
• Information contained on this web site is subject to change at any time without notice. American Airlines shall not be liable for any consequences resulting from your reliance on the information.

Press release

Travelport is one global travel’s preferred gds partner to support community of travel management companies.

Official Post by Travelport

• January 10, 2024

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LANGLEY, UK, January 10, 2024 – Travelport , a global technology company that powers bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide, today announced that it is One Global Travel ’s preferred Global Distribution System (GDS) partner.

As the only GDS provider to One Global, the international community of leading independent travel management companies (TMCs) formed by World Travel Inc. and Clarity Business Travel Management, Travelport will provide access to retail ready content and superior search, shop and servicing capabilities delivered through the Travelport+ platform.

One Global TMCs will also benefit from Travelport’s complete New Distribution Capability (NDC) solution, which empowers agents and travel managers to easily compare offers side-by-side and seamlessly service NDC bookings for their travelers.

“At One Global we are 100% committed to building trusted and transparent relationships with our suppliers that bring true value to our international community of TMC partners,” said Polly Smoothy, Global Supplier Partnership Manager at One Global Travel. “Travelport is our preferred GDS partner of choice to deliver a broad range of travel content and technology tools.”

“Business travel expectations are changing drastically, and employees want the ability to book and manage their work trips quickly, easily and with more control. That is why we designed Travelport+ to help TMCs operate as modern retailers and give travelers more self-service options,” said Paul Broughton, Director of Business Development, EMEA and APAC at Travelport. “Our partnership with One Global will drive modern retailing forward in the corporate travel sector, providing TMCs, their clients and business travelers with greater personalization, more convenience and truly modern experiences.”

About Travelport

Travelport is a global technology company that powers bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide. Buyers and sellers of travel are connected by the company’s next generation marketplace, Travelport+, which simplifies how brands connect, upgrades how travel is sold, and enables modern digital retailing. Headquartered in the United Kingdom and operating in more than 165 countries around the world, Travelport is focused on driving innovation that simplifies the complex travel ecosystem.

About One Global Travel

One Global was established with a vision to deliver truly global travel management solutions using local expertise and best in market solutions. Different where it matters, consistent where it counts. Powered by a line-up of market-leading TMCs and supported by global technologies, the community is a joint venture between World Travel Inc (USA) and Clarity Business Travel (UK).

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What is group travel insurance?

• Coverage options
• Choosing the right plan

Purchasing and managing group policies

• Special considerations
• Final recommendations and tips

Group Travel Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

• Group travel insurance is a single policy that covers groups of 10 or more. 
• Everyone in the group must have the same itinerary and travel to the same destination.
• Shop early and compare quotes to get the best deal. 

Whether preparing for a large family reunion in another state, booking a business trip with colleagues, or traveling with your college crew to a new country, you might consider group travel insurance. Group travel insurance provides financial protection for trips of 10 or more groups. But apart from the party size requirements, it functions the same as other travel insurance policies. 

Here's what you need to know about group travel insurance — how to determine if you need it, different options, and tips to secure the best deal. 

Group travel insurance is a single travel insurance policy that protects everyone on a trip. The policies are available for groups of 10 or more. Unlike other insurance policies that only cover one person or family travel insurance that only covers related travelers, group travel insurance can cover any group traveling together. You do not have to be related.

Group travel insurance policies usually offer comprehensive coverage, including standard protections against lost luggage, legal fees, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more. 

Key Benefits of Group Travel Insurance

Cost-effectiveness.

Group travel insurance may be cheaper than buying separate policies for each individual traveler. Insurance companies may provide discounts for insuring multiple people, as this lowers administrative overhead per person. This is similar to how auto insurers offer rate reductions for consumers who insure multiple people under one policy. 

It's worth noting that group travel insurance costs depend on the insurer and your trip details. Comparing quotes can help you find the best rates on the coverages you need.

You can find our guide on the best cheap travel insurance here.

Simplified management

Group travel insurance might make sense if everyone in your group has the same itinerary and travels to the same destination. The main perk of group travel insurance versus separate policies for each person is that it streamlines the purchasing process. You can buy one policy instead of multiple.

But to make it work, your group needs to be organized. This is especially true if group members intend to split the cost of the policy. It's crucial to communicate well with the people in your group and ensure everyone is on the same page. 

Coverage Options

Common coverage features.

Most group travel insurance policies offer comprehensive coverage, which usually covers common travel issues like cancellations and medical emergencies. 

Here's what comprehensive group travel insurance covers :

• Trip cancellation insurance: If you need to cancel your trip, this coverage reimburses you for the cost of travel. Each policy includes a list of cancellation reasons that are covered.
• Travel insurance for baggage: This covers the cost of stolen or missing luggage.
• Emergency medical evacuation insurance : Covers the cost of transportation from one location to another due to an emergency medical situation.
• Travel medical insurance: If you need medical care due to illness or injury while traveling, this part of the policy covers the cost. 
• Trip interruption travel insurance: If you have to cut your trip short due to an unforeseen emergency, this helps pay for travel plan changes. 
• Trip delay travel insurance: If there are delays to your flight or another aspect of your trip, this covers extra costs associated with the delay. It might include reimbursement for meals or hotel expenses. 

Additional coverage options

You can customize your travel insurance policy with coverage options at an additional premium. These add-ons can be helpful to provide adequate coverage for your group's specific needs. Some examples include:

• Adventure and sports coverage: For planned activities that involved increased risk (e.g., hiking, scuba diving, skiing, etc.) 
• Special events coverage: For cancellations, interruptions, or other losses that occur during planned events (e.g., weddings, corporate events, excursions, etc.)
• Equipment coverage: For damage, loss, or theft of equipment or gear brought on the trip (e.g., sports equipment, tech, etc.)
• Pre-existing condition waiver : For those with pre-existing conditions to receive travel medical coverage while traveling

Choosing the right group travel insurance

Assessing group needs.

Assessing your group's needs can help you choose the right group travel insurance. Some factors to consider include but aren't limited to the duration and destination of your trip, the type of travelers and their needs (including their ages and any pre-existing conditions), planned activities, and the group's budget.

Comparing insurance providers

Depending on the details of your trip, group travel insurance might be cheaper than purchasing individual policies for each traveler. But that is not always the case. As you shop for group travel insurance, there are steps you can take to ensure you get the best deal.

Get multiple quotes

It's smart to compare quotes from several providers. Multiple quotes allow you to compare coverage options and pricing. You can use a travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth or TravelInsurance.com . Or you contact providers directly. Once you know the price range for protection, you can select the provider that seems like the best fit. 

The best time to buy travel insurance is right after you make your first trip deposit. Your policy kicks in right away, which is helpful if an event occurs that forces you to cancel your trip. Additionally, an early purchase can be necessary to qualify for certain riders, such as pre-existing condition coverage and CFAR travel insurance .

Application and enrollment process

You should be prepared to provide the following information about your group when fielding quotes from travel insurance companies. 

• Trip dates 
• Travelers' names and date of birth
• Destination 
• Initial trip deposit date 
• Cost of trip per traveler (prepaid and nonrefundable expenses)

Your insurance company may ask for additional information, such as pre-existing medical conditions and planned activities. 

Policy management and claims

The coverage you select applies to everyone in the group. Each group member can make individual claims, which is helpful if only one or two people need to make a claim. But if everyone is involved, the entire group can file claims. 

Special Considerations for Group Travel Insurance

Tailoring policies to group type.

It's important to tailor your insurance policy based on the type of group and the trip to ensure adequate protection. For example, if you're traveling with senior members, you want your policy's medical coverage to include pre-existing conditions. If your trip has physical or outdoor activities, adventure and sports coverage is additional protection worth considering. 

A travel insurance agent can help you identify which coverages are necessary for your group's trip and find a policy that works for your group's budget.

Handling diverse member needs

Handling the diverse needs of group members within a single policy requires careful attention to policy details, including coverage specifics and deductibles. Start by thoroughly reviewing the policy to understand the included coverages and associated deductibles. If certain coverages are unnecessary for your group, ask your insurer whether they can be removed to reduce costs. 

You may want to look for a policy with add-ons or customizable options. This allows you to tailor the coverage to meet the specific needs of different group members. Additionally, consider raising the deductible to lower the premium. However, ensure the deductible amount is affordable for all members in case a claim needs to be filed. This ensures your group has adequate protection while accommodating the diverse financial needs of the group.

Group travel insurance final recommendations and tips

Best practices for group leaders.

Before your trip, communicate insurance details like coverage inclusions, exclusions, deductibles, and how to file a claim with your group. It also helps to maintain policy documents in case an unexpected event arises. 

You and your group should also establish a contingency plan and save your insurance's emergency hotline contact number for medical emergencies, natural disasters, or other travel disruptions.

Resources for further information

For further information on group travel insurance, check out:

• Insurance companies' websites for information about coverage options, exclusions, and getting a quote. 
• Travel insurance comparison sites allow users to compare policies from multiple providers at once based on coverage, price, and other factors. Some examples of comparison websites include InsureMyTrip , Squaremouth, and VisitorsCoverage . 
• Travel agencies to help you book your trip and pick group travel insurance based on your itinerary. 
• Consumer review sites like Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs to read first-hand testimonials by real users on their experience with a company. 

Group travel insurance FAQs

Group travel insurance typically requires a minimum of 10 travelers to qualify for group travel insurance, but this varies by provider.

Yes, many group travel insurance policies offer options for various activities specific to the group's needs and travel itinerary, such as adventure and sports, special events, and equipment coverage. 

Group travel insurance can be more cost-effective per person than individual policies, especially for larger groups. Compare quotes from various insurance providers to get the best deal on the coverages you need. 

If one member  of a group travel insurance plan has an issue, that member can file a claim with the travel insurance company individually. That's why it's important for every member to be familiar with the claims process in case an issue arises. 

A group leader should consider the group's specific needs, planned activities, destination-specific risks, and the group's budget when choosing a travel insurance policy. 

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Christopherson Business Travel (CBT) System Change

The Finance department is excited to announce that CBT will be replacing the Global Distribution System (GDS) that feeds travel content (ex., airfare, hotel, rental car, and rail information) into the university’s travel management system, Concur. This migration is scheduled for Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

What should you expect from this change?

This change will have minimal impact on university users booking travel, and all travel can continue to be booked through Concur. CBT has confirmed that all future travel that was booked prior to the migration will still be available for view in the traveler’s trip library in Concur. The only change that the traveler will see in Concur will be the inability to cancel/change travel arrangements (including airfare, hotel, rental car, or rail) that were booked prior to June 25, 2024. If you need to make any changes to future travel that was booked prior to Tuesday, June 25th please reach out to CBT at [email protected] and our dedicated travel agent can assist you. In addition, Finance will be communicating individually with each ticket holder that is impacted by this change.

Travel booked on June 25, 2024 and after will be able to be modified or changed directly in Concur as normal.

What benefits will travelers see from this change?

The new system will make additional content available in Concur during the first/second quarter of calendar year 2025. That means that you will have more airfare and hotel options to choose from in Concur. As we get closer, we will share additional information about these changes, but we are excited about this system transition and what it will mean for you as a university traveler in the near future.

Questions? Please contact [email protected]

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

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Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

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Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia