After nearly 30 years in business, New York-based tour operator SmarTours has officially ceased operations.
The company, which was founded in 1996, had built a reputation for offering guided tours to destinations across Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, China, Europe, India, Nepal, Japan and Latin America.
The sudden closure, which Travel Weekly reported occurred on Friday, was accompanied by the shutdown of the companys website, which now only displays a farewell message to customers.
"For the past 30 wonderful years, SmarTours has been honored to serve travelers like you, bringing unforgettable experiences to destinations around the world," the memo on its website reads. "It has been our privilege to be part of your journeys, and we are deeply grateful for your trust and support. It is with great sadness that we must inform you that as of today, January 31, 2025, smarTours is no longer operational."
SmarTours did not provide a specific reason for its abrupt closure. However, in its message, the company instructed customers with outstanding credits to seek recourse through the U.S. Tour Operators Association (USTOA). Because SmarTours a member of the association, customers may be eligible for reimbursement through the USTOAs, which provides financial protection in the event of a members closure.
Today, the USTOA notified affected travelers that eligibility for claims is limited to those who purchased tours on or before January 31. Any deposits or payments made after the companys closure will not qualify for reimbursement.
Customers seeking to file a claim can find the necessary forms online, with a submission deadline set for May 1. However, financial protection under the USTOAs ?$1 Million Travelers Assistance Program does not cover travel advisor commissions.
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