Ameribus
A new US transport company has launched what it claims is the first year-round, hop-on, hop-off coach service between a range of North American cities.
Called Ameribus, it can also offer tour packages, accommodation and book connecting flights between US destinations if required.
Basic commission to agents is 10% but can increase to 20%, depending on the scale of business. UK wholesalers are also being targeted.
The company began service on the West Coast at the end of last month, and on the East Coast on May 11.
Ameribus passes cost from $129 for one month’s unlimited travel on one route to $440 on all three routes, which include Florida; the northeastern US and Toronto; and California and Nevada. More than 24 destinations are offered.
President David Garbourg said: “Daily scheduled hop-on, hop-off motorcoach service is thriving in places like Europe and Australia, so we decided to introduce the concept in North America.
“Ameribus is designed to combine the comfort and security of a guided coach tour with flexible schedules that meet individual needs. It is also convenient, as the coaches pick up passengers daily, in all the cities served, in front of selected hotels, not at a bus depot.”
Garbourg said every coach had a guide, city brochures and pre-recorded commentary for passengers.
The Florida-based company is targeting singles, independent couples and small groups, and is also organising basic tours from a range of points, to which accommodation is usually added. These include destinations in Florida, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Washington, Philadelphia and New York.
An eight-day Florida Highlights package costs from $333, four-day California Express from $222, and ex-New York 10-day East Coaster from $599. Ameribus can be contacted on 001 954 923 1480; fax 001 954 923 1692, or at www.ameribus.com