VBT Wins Most Active Partner from France Guide/Atout France

VBT’s Partnership with the French Tourism Bureau Shines

BRISTOL, VT—VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacation’s partnership with France Guide, the official website of the French Government Tourist Office, was recognized as France Guide dubbed the active vacation company their “Most Active Partner” at their annual awards ceremony held Sunday, October 21 in Austin, Texas.

With representatives from over 100 travel industry organizations in attendance, the two-day annual event represents the largest meeting between American tour operators and French travel industry partners. This year, France Guide welcomed French and European suppliers, including regional and city tourism offices, airlines, hotel groups, transportation companies and more. The event gives U.S. tour operators who specialize in selling France the opportunity to meet key suppliers and influential members of the travel industry.

Additionally, the summit provides a venue for France Guide to acknowledge operators that excel in promoting and selling travel in France.

The three-year partnership between France Guide and VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations saw great success in 2012 through several gainful campaigns, including a rewarding initiative focused on gastronomical and wine-touring vacations in which VBT donated a vacation for two to Provence. Through the partners’ efforts, they created over 1 million impressions upon those interested in traveling in France.

Out of the 64 Tour Operators in attendance at the awards ceremony, VBT was the sole recipient of the “Most Active Partner” award.

“It is a great honor for VBT to be recognized among such a tremendous group of Tour Operators,” said Gregg Marston, Owner of VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations.

“The award validates the long-standing relationship we have had with France Guide and it truly underscores the value of active partnerships within the travel industry,” said Marston. “We look forward to continuing our great work with France Guide and the French Government Tourist Office, and continuing to provide unique travel experiences in France and around the world.”

Founded in 1971 by a Middlebury College professor, VBT offers deluxe, small group bicycling, walking and cross-country skiing tours worldwide, including destinations in Europe, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Vietnam, Thailand, Peru, Argentina, Canada and the U.S.A. Each trip includes all accommodations, many meals, two expert local Trip Leaders, unique sightseeing and cultural activities, and full vehicle support. Unlike other companies, VBT also includes international airfare in its trip cost.

For reservations or more information, and to receive the most recent VBT catalog, call 1-888-340-2127 or visit the Request a Catalog page on our website www.vbt.com.