Internet continues as biggest single source for travel info

To Whom It May Concern:

We came across this information in the trades and thought it would be of
interest to this newsgroup as well.

Happy sailing,
John Sisker, SHIP-TO-SHORE CRUISE AGENCY®
(714) 536-3850 or toll free at (800) 724-6644 & (pagoo ID: 714.536.3850)
www.shiptoshorecruise.com



No surprise: the internet is the single primary source of information when
planning a vacation, found a recent survey conducted for the US Tour
Operators Association (USTOA).

More than a third of respondents in a telephone survey reported the internet
as their primary information source.

That number increased to 46% for those with college educations.

Second was word-of-mouth at nearly 30%. Travel agents were third at 10%.

Word-of-mouth was higher for women at 33% than men, at 24%.

"For initial research, we encourage people to do their vacation planning on
the internet, to ask friends and family about their travel experiences and
to visit internet sites where travelers post their opinions," said Bob
Whitley, President of USTOA. He added:

"However, when it comes to making the actual arrangements, USTOA highly
recommends that people work with a travel agent. Especially on more complex
trips, a good travel agent can smooth the way and help iron out potential
problems."