Travel feels more unpredictable than it did a few years ago, and that’s exactly why guided travel is winning again. In this Captains of Industry episode, Dan sits down with Terry Dale, President and CEO of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), to unpack what’s really driving the surge in tour operators, packaged tours, and high-touch planning in 2026. Terry explains how USTOA is built on integrity and why trust has become a deciding factor for travelers who can’t afford to waste their money or their limited vacation time.

We break down what makes a USTOA member different, including the unique $1 million Traveler’s Assistance Program that helps protect consumer deposits, along with the rigorous vetting and industry references required for membership. Terry also shares why travel advisors are experiencing a true renaissance, and how the certainty of expert guidance is outperforming endless DIY planning, even for travelers who begin their journey with AI tools.