ASTA Tour Operator Program (TOP)

Tour Operator Program Application
The Tour Operator Program (TOP) is a section of ASTA’s membership comprised of tour operators who
agree to adhere to stricter membership standards, abide by a tour operator code of ethics and are
committed to promoting the use of tour operators by travel agents.
ASTA’s TOP program offers opportunities to connect your tour company with travel agents. The program’s
substantial benefits and opportunities include agent targeted e-newsletters; tour offering directories, TOP
member-only directory and use of the TOP logo.
TOP CODE OF ETHICS
Preamble
Travel agencies value tours and packages because of the higher commission they deliver and the ability to expand their
profits. The challenge for these agents is finding reputable suppliers.
TOP members pledge themselves to conduct their business with integrity; treat travel agents in a courteous and
professional manner; and strive to perform to the travel agent’s expectations.
Responsibilities of All TOP Members
• Travel Agents: TOP members will ensure that the company’s promotional materials do not disparage travel
agents.
• Commission: TOP members will accept travel agent bookings and pay commissions.
• Responsiveness & Complaint Resolution: TOP members agree to respond within three weeks of receiving a
complaint. TOP members agree to informal mediation to resolve complaints through ASTA’s Consumer Affairs
Department.
Conclusion
Adherence to the TOP Code of Ethics is what sets TOP members apart from other tour operators. Failure to follow the
regulating guidelines for TOP members may result in disciplinary actions or dismissal from TOP & ASTA.
TOP MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
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Is an Allied Company member of ASTA
Has been in the business of operating tours for the past three (3) years
Has a $1 million Errors & Omissions (E&O) policy naming travel agents as additional insureds & will provide a copy of
insurance certificate.
Accepts travel agent bookings and pays commissions
Agrees to comply with applicable federal and state travel regulations
Agrees to respond to Better Business Bureau and other consumer protection agency complaints within 30 days
Cooperates with ASTA’s Consumer Affairs Department in resolving complaints
Complies with both the TOP Code of Ethics and the ASTA Code of Ethics
Subscribes to ASTA’s Environmental code
[email protected]
I 800.ASK.ASTA I www.ASTA.org
INFORMATION - Contact Person for TOP Program:
Company Name ______________________________________________________ ASTA Membership Id # ____________________
Mr/ Mrs/ Ms First Name_________________________________________ Last __________________________________________
Title ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address _____________________________________________________ City _____________________________________
State/Province ____________________ Postal Code __________________ Country _______________________________________
Phone ______________________________________________________ Fax ____________________________________________
E-mail ____________________________________________________ Website __________________________________________
List Owners or Two Principal Officers (if ownership has changed in the last three years please explain)
#1 _____________________________________________________ #2 __________________________________________________
How long has company been under present ownership? _____________________________________________________________
Is the land of portion of your programs packaged and operated directly by your firm?
o Yes o No
If no, add name and address of firm: _____________________________________________________________________________
List the primary destinations for your tours: _______________________________________________________________________
Has the applicant or any principal owner or officer ever filed for bankruptcy or been a defendant in any legal action regarding
I hereby acknowledge that in the event my company is accepted as a participant of TOP that:
(a) I have received a copy of the ASTA Tour Operator Program membership requirements and Code of Ethics;
(b) I have read it and understand it; and,
(c) I have the authority to apply for participation in this program and in the event my company is accepted, it agrees to abide by the terms of the program.
(d) I have $1 million Errors & Omissions (E&O) policy naming travel agents as additional insureds and have attached a copy of my insurance certificate.
I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application, all of which are accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that
misrepresentation or omission of facts may be considered cause for denial or cancellation of participation. If accepted for participation in TOP, I agree to advise ASTA
of any changes of control, firm name, location of business, or other pertinent matters.
Signature: ____________________________________________________________ Date: ________________________________
Printed Name: _____________________________________________ Title: ____________________________________________
TOP PROGRAM DUES & PAYMENT
Tour Operator Program (TOP)………………….........................................................................................................$525
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Check - for full payment, made payable to ASTA.
Check # ___________
Wire Transfer - PNC Bank NA, 8800 Tinicum Blvd,
Philadelphia Pa 19153, USA,
Telephone Number: 1.800.272.4912 Routing/ABA:
031000053; Swift Code: PNCCUS33;
Account#: 5300766238;
American Society of Travel Agents
Credit Card - Please charge my membership dues to:
o AmEx o MasterCard o VISA o Diners Club o Discover
Acct. # ______________________________________________
o
Expiration Date _______________________________________
Signature ____________________________________________
Name on card ________________________________________
Return Application and Payment to:
ASTA - Attn: Membership
1101 King Street, Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314
[email protected]
I 800.ASK.ASTA I www.ASTA.org