Playing Nicely Together: Tour operators work cooperatively to benefit travelers and each other.

• Author: Orr, Vanessa
• Position: TOURISM

Companies in the tourism industry often work together to provide the best experience for those visiting the Last Frontier. And while this form of cooperative tourism may seem counterintuitive since many of them are competing for the same tourist dollar, such relationships actually benefit all of the parties involved--including the state itself.

"Alaska in particular is a unique destination, and everyone in the industry wants the destination to succeed because a rising tide lifts all ships," explains Jillian Simpson, vice president of the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA).

"Our goal is to have a customer walk away from their Alaska experience with a well-rounded trip and to be happy with all aspects of their vacation." agrees Bob Johnson, director of marketing for Great Alaskan Holidays. "While we're in the business of renting motorhomes, we also want to support the tourism industry in Alaska as much as we possibly can. Ensuring that visitors have a positive customer experience--and want to come back--benefits us all."

The Popularity of Package Tours

According to a survey conducted by McDowell Group for ATIA, Alaska visitor statistics from 2016 showed that 64 percent of summer visitors purchased a tour package through one distribution channel that included two or more components for one price. This number is down slightly from a decade ago--in 2006 -- when 69 percent of visitors purchased a tour package.

"While we've seen a slight decrease in people booking package tours, it's remained pretty consistent," says Simpson. "It was thought that Baby Boomers and younger travelers might want to be more independent, but the fact is, these types of packages offer so many benefits that we have not seen a dramatic decrease.

"I think it's due in part to the fact that Alaska is a very big destination, and it can be complicated and overwhelming to plan the entire trip yourself," she continues. "Most people who come to Alaska don't stay in one spot; they want to travel around. And it definitely helps to have someone who knows the logistics involved and who can help visitors pick what will work best."

There are other benefits to working with someone familiar with the state. "If you are able to book with someone who knows the destination well, you can trust that they will know the responsible operators and the best experiences in each location--that you won't miss out on the highlights," says Simpson.

"An added value is that you can get the inside...