A tour operators job is to create packages that they can then sell on to travel agents, sell on websites and directly to the customer. They can organise the flights, transfers from the airport to the hotel, and the accommodation arrangements, whether its 1 star to 5 star, or all inclusive to self catering. Tour operators also organise trips like skiing, water boarding, canoeing, clubbing nights.
In the UK, there are two large companies, providing holiday packages, which are Thomas Cook and TUI.
There are two types of tour operators, mass market and specialist.
Mass Market tour operator- A mass market tour operator is someone who organises holidays, trips and tours for groups of people at a time, they arrange flights, baggage and any extra add ons known as auxiliary services. An example of a mass market tour operator is TUI, they book for all types of people and groups.
Specialist tour operator- A specialist tour operator appeals to a certain group or individuals. For example PGL and STA are organisations that only accommodate certain people. PGL is a childrens activity centre where they can relax, have fun and enjoy childhood for a weekend usually, which is obviously just for children. Also another example of a specialist tour operator is Wendy Wu Tours where only people that are travelling to China can book.
Tour operators accommodate all types of tourists, domestic, inbound and outbound. Whether its a trip to Haven Holiday Park with your family or an holiday to Africa or your parents coming from Canada to visit you in England.